The separation of ethoxylated aliphatic amines from zinc containing effluents with macroporous polymeric adsorbents Wofatit EP 61, EP 62, Y 59, Y 77 and active carbons has been examined. The adsorption behaviour has been investigated as a function of temperature, time and concentration of Na2SO4, ZnSO4 and H2SO4. The macroporous polymers EP 61, Y 77 and Y 59 are capable of separating ethoxylated aliphatic amines from effluents of viscose fibre industry at higher temperatures and under weakly acidic conditions. In contrast to active carbon, inorganic components are not adsorbed on the investigated macroporous resins. Data obtained in a concentration range of 0 to 10 g of adsorbate per litre produced a Langmuir profile for adsorption of ethoxylated aliphatic amines by polymeric adsorbents.