This paper deals with an investigation on coir-based adsorbent, puresorbe, in the removal of chromium(VI) from the aqueous solutions. The adsorption of chromium(VI) was carried out by varying the parameters such as agitation time, metal concentration, adsorbent dose, temperature and pH. The experimental isotherm data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich and Peterson isotherms. Adsorption followed second order rate expression for the particle size 250-500 mu m at pH 2. The monolayer adsorption capacity is 76.92 mg chromium(VI) per gram of puresorbe. Thermodynamic parameters show the endothermic nature of chromium(VI) adsorption. Desorption study carried out using distilled water adjusted to pH of 2-10. suggests that chemisorption might be the mode of adsorption. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.