Removal of lead from aqueous solutions by using the natural and Fe(III)-modified zeolite

► In this paper sorption of lead by the natural and Fe(III)-modified zeolite was investigated. ► Fe(III)-modified zeolite was synthesized under strongly basic conditions. ► The effects of sorbents dose and the initial lead concentrations on its sorption by two sorbents were studied. ► Much higher sorption of lead was achieved with Fe(III)-modified zeolite (natural zeolite - 66 mg/g; Fe(III)-modified zeolite - 133 mg/g). ► The best fit of experimental data was obtained with Freudlich sorption model.