By using the wetness impregnation-coprecipitation method, a new adsorbent, cerium(IV) oxide coated on SiMCM-41 ((Ce)SiMCM-41), was prepared for removal of fluoride ions from water. Factors investigated were number of impregnations, Ce/Si ratios, concentrations of F- ions, pH values, and calcination temperatures. The dynamics, isotherms, and mechanism of adsorption of F- ions were discussed. zool Academic Press.