Efficient removal of boron acid by N-methyl-d-glucamine functionalized silica-polyallylamine composites and its adsorption mechanism

► Boron-specific adsorbent was prepared. ► Boron adsorbent maintained its integrity and high efficiency of boron removal after multiple adsorption-regeneration cycles. ► Boron adsorption is attributed to specific affinity between the N-methyl-d-glucamine and H3BO3, and physical adsorption.