Pectins fromsea grasses are considered as promising substanceswith pronouncedmetal-binding activity. Due to
the high molecular weight and heterogeneous structure, the use of pectins for removal of metal ions is difficult.
Technology of directed pectin degradation was developed and homogenous degraded nanoscaled pectin polymers
were synthesized. Experimental samples of degraded pectin isolated fromPhyllospadix iwatensis were tested
for their metal binding activity in comparison with native pectin from this seagrass and commercial citrus
pectin. The metal uptake of all pectin compoundswas highestwithin the pH range from4.0 to 6.0. The Langmuir,
Freundlich and BET sorption models were applied to describe the isotherms and constants. Results showed that
depolymerized pectin exerts highest lead and cadmium binding activity with pronounced affinity. All pectin
compoundswere suggested to be favorable sorbents. Therefore, it can be concluded that degraded pectin is a prospective
material for creation of metal-removing water treatment systems.