Modifier affected the morphology, crystallinity, thermostability, acid–base property.
The maximum Cu(II)/Cr(VI) adsorption capacity reached 50.14 and 38.82 mg g−1.
The modification enhanced the selective Cr(VI) adsorption in binary metals system.
Materials possess well reusability and adsorption performance in presence of anion.
Metals adsorbed on Schwertmannite through surface complexation and anion-exchange.