Removal of Ag+ from water environment using a novel magnetic thiourea-chitosan imprinted Ag+

► Coating modified chitosan on magnetic fluids, which were using Ag(I) as imprinted ions, is a new method to expand function of the chitosan. ► The method can improve the surface area for adsorption of Ag+ and reduce the required dosage for the adsorption of Ag(I). ► The imprinted magnetic chitosan can be used effectively and selectively to remove Ag(I) ions from aqueous solutions. ► It shows the facile, fast separation process of magnetic chitosan during the experiments. The absorbent has a good application prospect.