A copper mesh with superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity was fabricated via thermal oxidation and subsequent surface modification. After surface treatment, the copper mesh exhibited self-cleaning properties, striking loading capacities, and superior anticorrosion. In addition, the copper mesh could be used in a separator for separating oil from oily water with high efficiency. The presented approach may provide a promising strategy for the design and construction of superhydrophobic-superoleophilic materials which can be used for separating oil from oily water. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.