A novel mesoporous lignin/silica hybrid prepared from rice husks at different pH values was produced in situ using the sol-gel process. The optimum conditions for hybrid formation were 90 degrees C and pH 3 for 6 h in the presence of 2 mol L(-1) H(2)SO(4). The lignin/silica ratio reached 2:3 (41.67% lignin, 58.33% silica). The hybrid with various pore structures was spherical with diameters of approximately 60 nm and a specific surface of 471.7 m(2)/g. Such lignin/silica hybrid material originating from rice husks can potentially be used to decontaminate environmental objects. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.