A kind of sulfonated graphene (around 3 nm thick) with high dispersion properties has been synthesized. It is demonstrated to adsorb persistent organic aromatic pollutants effectively from aqueous solutions. The adsorption capability of the prepared sulfonated graphene nanomaterials approaches similar to 2.3-2.4 mmol g(-1) for naphthalene and 1-naphthol, which is one of the highest capabilities of today's nanomaterials. This highly effective adsorbent may be a promising candidate to remove aromatic chemicals from large volumes of aqueous solutions. It opens a new door for cost effective environmental pollution management with graphene in the near future.