The zinc-binding activity of different water-soluble pectin compounds varying according to their degree of esterification and of insoluble calcium pectate beads in aqueous solution was studied in a batch sorption system. The zinc uptake by all pectin compounds was highest within the pH range from 4.0 to 7.0. The binding capacities and rates of zinc ions by pectin compounds were evaluated. The Langmuir, Freundlich, and BET sorption models were applied to describe the isotherms and constants. Sorption isotherm data could be well interpreted by the Langmuir equation. The results obtained through the study suggest that pectin compounds are favorable sorbents. The largest number of zinc ions are bound by pectin with the degree of esterification close to zero. Therefore, it can be concluded that low-esterified pectins are more effective substances for elimination of zinc ions from aqueous disposals. (c) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.