In this paper we used a previously reported model for examining the adsorption of nonelectrolytes in solution by solid adsorbents to study the adsorption of lithium(I) cations by acid and sodium amberlites, which is an ion-exchange process. Based on the results, both are equilibrium processes and obey a kinetic law with a unity partial order in the Li+ concentration. The kinetic results were used to calculate the specific rate constants and thermodynamic activation functions involved. Also, equilibrium isotherms were used to determine the corresponding ion-exchange capacities, the individual equilibrium constants, and the thermodynamic functions for the overall process. (C) 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.