Modification of magnetite nanoparticles surfaces with thiol groups leads to a magnetically recoverable scavenger for metals. The magnetic solid removed Pd2+ ions from aqueous and non-aqueous solutions, and it was easily recovered with a magnet with no need of additional separation procedures. Scavenging efficiency of > 99% was demonstrated. The magnetically recovered solid containing palladium-catalyzed the conversion of cyclohexene to cyclohexane for at least five successive reactions with TON similar to 800 each. Magnetic separation capabilities greatly facilitate the recovery of the metal scavenger and catalyst. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.