In situ incorporation of nickel nanoparticles into the mesopores of MCM-41 by manipulation of solvent-solute interaction and its activity toward adsorptive desulfurization of gas oil

► Nickel nanoparticles were incorporated into the mesopores of MCM-41 via in situ approach. ► Synthesized samples (Ni/MCM-41) have well-ordered hexagonal structure. ► Pore blocking was not observed after incorporation of nickel nanoparticles into MCM-41. ► Synthesized samples showed very good capacity for the adsorption of 4-MDBT from gas oil.