Copper oxide/hydroxide were deposited in chitosan matrix by in situ precipitation.

Composite materials successfully sorb As(V) from aqueous solutions at pH close to 6.

Alkaline NaCl solution is very efficient for metal desorption and sorbent recycling.

Metal sorption occurs by electrostatic attraction on cationic sorption sites.

Sorbents are efficient for As(V) recovery from effluents of pesticide industry.