Preparation, characterization and adsorption properties of a novel 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane functionalized sodium alginate porous membrane adsorbent for Cr(III) ions

► The APTEOS/SA has been successively applied for adsorption removal of Cr(III) ions. ► The APTEOS/SA exhibited excellent uptake capacity of 1.73 mmol/g. ► The APTEOS/SA could be used conveniently. ► The APTEOS/SA could be reused with little loss of adsorption capacity. ► The adsorption rate was fast and adsorption equilibrium was obtained within 50 min.