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Abstract: An amino functionalized microcrystalline cellulose from corn stalk was prepared and its synthesis and operation conditions were optimized to remove Cu2+ from wastewater. To prepare this adsorbent, cellulose was grafted by glycidyl methacrylate in the presence of OP-10 as emulsifiers and potassium persulfate as initiators, then the grafted cellulose was aminated by diethylenetriamine. Batch experiments were performed to evaluate its adsorption capacity for Cu2+. Its adsorption process for Cu2+ was spontaneous and well fitted with pseudo-second-order kinetics and Langmuir isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacity of this modified cellulose for Cu2+ was demonstrated to be 343 mg/g at 45 °C and pH 4.5. The adsorbent showed a promising future due to its high performance in the removal of toxic Cu2+ and reusability. From the characterization results of scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the adsorbent structure and adsorption mechanism could be inferred. The adsorption mechanism revealed that the primary and secondary amines were the main functional groups to adsorb Cu2+. The study results could provide a new route for the utilization of waste corn stalk to control water pollution caused by toxic metal ions.Graphical Abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]