Separation and recovery of lead from a low concentration solution of lead(II) and zinc(II) using the hydrolysis production of poly styrene-co-maleic anhydride

► Separation and recovery of Pb(II) from a solution of Pb(II) and Zn(II) was performed. ► Pb(II) can be recovered using the hydrolysis production of poly styrene-co-maleic anhydride. ► The adsorption capacity of the PSMA resin for Pb(II) is 641.62 mg g−1. ► Pb(II) can be recovered through desorption of Pb-PSMA into Pb(II) ion and the solid PSMA resin. ► The resin can be repeatedly used through desorption by an inorganic acid condition (6 M H2SO4).