Comprehensive Review on the MXene Nanomaterial for the Catalytic Reduction and Toward Light-Driven Photocatalytic Destruction of Emerging Contaminants

Abstract

Hazardous inert pollutants, organic dyes, pharmaceuticals, and widespread discharge of pesticide contaminants into water sources due to population growth and global industrialization are becoming some of the world's most pressing health problems. A novel kind of carbonitride or transition metal carbide, known as two-dimensional (2D) MXene materials, has shown promise in adsorbing several heavy pollutants, including lead, mercury, chromium, and copper. The removal of pollutants from watery environments using MXene nanocomposites is reviewed in this article. This review highlights the different synthesis methods and potential of MXene nanocomposites to improve water purification methods by offering a thorough overview of recent developments in their application for photocatalytic wastewater treatment. This review further explores existing constraints, looks at the mechanisms behind MXene-mediated pollutant degradation, and suggests future research approaches to improve MXene nanomaterials for extensive ecological and wastewater treatment applications.