Preparation of amino terminated polyamidoamine functionalized chitosan beads and its Cr(VI) uptake studies

► Zr4+ loaded polyamidoamine chitosan beads used to remove Cr(VI) for first time. ► Maximum sorption capacity with the minimum 2 h contact time. ► The Cr(VI) removal is via adsorption/electrostatic attraction. ► Polyamidoamine chitosan beads is a promising sorbent for enhanced removal of Cr(VI).