The catalytic properties of a novel Raney-Nickel mold were investigated in the liquid-phase hydrogenation of benzene and compared to commercially available Raney-Nickel. The novel Raney-Nickel catalyst showed similar activity as the commercial catalyst but facile product/catalyst separation. Furthermore, the novel Raney-Nickel catalyst is recyclable without loss in activity unlike the commercial nickel sponge. [GRAPHICS] .