Fixed-bed column studies on a modified chitosan hydrogel for detoxification of aqueous solutions from copper (II)

► Pyromellitic dianhydride crosslinked chitosan has been prepared and characterized. ► The modified chitosan showed improved thermal stability. ► Removal of copper (II) from aqueous solutions in a fixed-bed system was investigated. ► Adams-Bohart, Thomas and Yoon models were used to predict the dynamic behavior of the column.