In this paper, functional macromolecule poly (methacrylic acid) (PMAA) was grafted onto the surface of silica gel particles using 3-methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane (MPS) as intermedia, and the grafted particle PMAA/SiO2 with strong adsorption ability for Cd2+ was prepared. The adsorption properties of Cd2+ on the PMAA/SiO2 were investigated with both batch and column methods. The experimental results showed that the PMAA/SiO2 possesses very strong adsorption ability for Cd2+, and the saturated adsorption amount could reach up to 42.6 mg g(-1). The equilibrium adsorption data were found to be consistent with the Langmuir isotherm model. pH and temperature have great influence on the adsorption amount. PMAA/SiO2 can be easily regenerated using diluted hydrochloric acid solution as eluent. The PMAA/SiO2 possesses excellent reusability properties as well. (C) 2010 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.