Novel chitosan/poly(vinyl) alcohol thin adsorptive membranes modified with amino functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes for Cu(II) removal from water: Preparation, characterization, adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics

► MWCNT-NH2 could effectively enhance adsorption capacity of CS/PVA membrane. ► Copper ion adsorption on CS/PVA membrane is endothermic and spontaneous. ► Kinetic of the adsorption is improved by addition of MWCNT. ► MWCNTs could enhance the reusability of the CS/PVA adsorptive membranes. ► Adsorption is more favorable at higher CNT contents and elevated temperatures.