[Ni(2,2′-bipy)3]Cl2 activated sepiolite clay with high photocatalytic and oil–water separation abilities

•Ni(2,2′-bipy)3]Cl2/sepiolite was successfully prepared by hydrothermal method.•Ni(2,2′-bipy)3]Cl2/sepiolite has the excellent photocatalytic for dye degradation and hydrogen evolution.•Ni(2,2′-bipy)3]Cl2/sepiolite possess extraordinary superhydrophobic and superoleophilic properties.•Ni(2,2′-bipy)3]Cl2/sepiolite has the excellent oil–water separation abilities.