The removal of fluoride from aqueous solution by using the original and activated red mud forms was studied in batch equilibration technique. Influence of pH, adsorbent dose and contact time on the adsorption were investigated. The fluoride adsorption capacity of activated form was found to be higher than that of the original form. The maximum removal of fluoride ion was obtained at pH 5.5. The removal of fluoride was expressed with Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. Langmuir adsorption isotherm curve was found to be significant. It was found that the sufficient time for adsorption equilibrium of fluoride ions is 2 h. The possibility of removal of fluoride ion by using red mud is explained on the basis of the chemical nature and specific interaction with metal oxide surfaces and the results are interpreted in terms of pH variations. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.