Three different magnetic iron oxide-silica matrices with polyoxaalkyl units have been obtained in a multi-step synthesis. The structures of the matrices were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, while their surface morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The scavenging ability was studied by ultraviolet-visible measurements. The results demonstrate very good scavenging efficiency of compounds studied against sodium cations (Na(+)). The complexing abilities of the magnetic iron oxide-silica surfaces were compared with those of the previously studied analogously modified non-magnetic silica surfaces. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.