Researchers at MIT have created a method of separating oil from water using magnets. By mixing water repellent, ferrous nano particles into the oil, they are able to separate the mixture from the water at a later time.

It is a simple method that can be used “on a larger scale and deployed at sea for days or weeks, where electrical power is scarce and maintenance facilities limited.”

Researchers did not mention possible negative effects that mixing in ferrous nano particles will have, if any, but I suppose for right now it is better than oceans full of oil.

Go science!