Adsorption of Cu-EDTA complexes from aqueous solutions by polymeric Fe/Zr pillared montmorillonite: Behaviors and mechanisms

► Efficient removal of Cu-EDTA was achieved by Fe/Zr pillared Mt for the first time. ► Comprehensive assessment of the impacts of experimental conditions. ► The synthetic materials were stable, low cost and could be further improved. ► A wide optimal pH range of 3.0-9.0 and a short reaction time of 30 min. ► XPS and EPR provided some direct information on adsorption mechanisms.