What are McGill sheen nets made of?

McGill sheen nets are specifically designed to collect oil and other hydrophobic (water-repelling) substances from water surfaces. The material used in their construction, oleophilic material, is crucial because it has an affinity for oil, allowing the net to effectively absorb and collect oil sheens that may be present on the water surface. This property enables the nets to perform optimally in oil spill response efforts, as they can attract and retain oil while allowing water to pass through.

Understanding that oleophilic materials stand out in their function as compared to other materials is essential. For instance, while polyethylene, silicone, and vinyl may have various applications in environmental response, they do not possess the specific oil-attracting properties necessary for the performance of a McGill sheen net. Thus, the choice of oleophilic material is what makes these nets uniquely suited for their intended purpose in marine science and spill response activities.