Lignin-grafted carbon nanotubes (L-CNTs) was fabricated by a three-step method.
L-CNTs contained many functional groups and could be well dispersed in water.
L-CNTs had higher adsorption efficiencies to Pb(II) and oil droplet than CNTs.
L-CNTs showed a high distribution coefficient of Kd = 3.6 × 105 mL/g for Pb(II).
This provides a new approach to fabricate eco-friendly nanocomposite adsorbent.