Using the Taguchi method, this study presents a systematic optimization approach for removal of lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) by a nanostructure, zinc oxide-modified mesoporous carbon CMK-3 denoted as Zn-OCMK-3. CMK-3 was synthesized by using SBA-15 and then oxidized by nitric acid. The zinc oxide was loaded to the modified CMK-3 by the equilibrium adsorption of Zn(II) ions from aqueous solution followed by calcination to convert zinc nitrate to zinc oxide. The CMK-3 had porous structure and high specific surface area which can accommodate zinc oxide in a spreading manner, the zinc oxide connects to the carbon surface via oxygen atoms. The controllable factors such as agitation time, initial concentration, temperature, dose and pH of solution have been optimized. Under optimum conditions, the pollutant removal efficiency (PRE) was 97.25% for Pb(II) and 99% for Hg(II). The percentage contribution of each controllable factor was also determined. The initial concentration of pollutant is the most influential factor, and its value of percentage contribution is up to 31% and 43% for Pb and Hg, respectively. Our results show that the Zn-OCMK-3 is an effective nanoadsorbent for lead and mercury pollution remediation. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms were used to model the equilibrium adsorption data for Pb(II) and Hg(II). (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.