Binding of heavy metal contaminants onto chitosans - An evaluation for remediation of metal contaminated soil and water

► Chitosans have potential application for remediation of contaminated soil and water. ► Their amino groups (-NH2) and hydroxyl groups (-OH) can bind metal ions. ► Chitosan sorption capacity (mmol/g): Ag 1.93; Cu 1.61; Zn 0.94; Cd 0.72 and Pb 0.64.