Efficient sorbents based on widely available clay minerals are of particular value in the field of pollution control. The research shows mineral-based sorbents formed through organic modification of two kaolinites differing in structural order. Their structure and texture was characterized by XRD, FTIR, DTA/TG, CHN, XPS and N-2 adsorption/desorption methods. The obtained materials were tested as adsorbents of Cd(II), Zn(II), Pb(II) and Cu(II) in equilibrium and kinetic experiments. Moreover, the sorption mechanisms were subjected to investigation. The synthesis procedure involved interlayer grafting of kaolinites with diethanolamine (DEA) and triethanolamine (TEA). The organo-kaolinites showed resistance to hydrolysis and temperature up to similar to 300 degrees C. The adsorption improvement was observed for the modified materials, particular the DEA derivatives and materials based on the poorly ordered kaolinite. The XPS analyses of elements local environment coupled with binding strength tests enabled to confirm the immobilization mechanisms. The pure kaolinites removed metal ions through either the ion-exchange or the surface complexation, exclusively on the external surfaces. In turn, the grafted materials additionally immobilized ions in the interlayer space which was expanded. The ions were attracted by the grafted DEA or TEA, which are N and O-donors and readily form complexes with metals, particularly with the Cu(II). (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.