Synthesis of yolk–shell magnetic magnesium silicate with tunable yolk morphology for removal of methylene blue in water

•Mesoporous yolk–shell magnetic magnesium silicates have been prepared.•The yolk morphology and shell thickness can be readily tunable.•The products have large specific surface and unique mesoporous structure.•The excellent properties for the removal of methylene blue were studied. Yolk–shell structures have attracted intensive interest owing to their unique structure and promising applications in various fields. In this study, we report a facile, effective route to prepare tubular/spindle mesoporous yolk–shell magnetic magnesium silicate. The yolk morphology and shell thickness can be readily tunable by varying the experimental conditions. The as-synthesized products have large specific surface and unique mesoporous structure. The adsorption capacities of tubular and spindle mesoporous yolk–shell magnetic magnesium silicate for methylene blue are 188 and 141mg/g, respectively.