Leveraging the Ingenuity of Carbon Nanomaterials towards Water Quality Amelioration

Abstract

In this review, we explore carbon nanomaterial properties, synthesis pathways and their action in pristine/composite form(s) for the cause of water remediation. Water being the essence of life, upkeep of its quality is imperative for the health and development of all beings. With rapid urbanization, climate change, population growth and unsustainable practices, the availability and quality of water has been largely compromised. Carbonaceous nanomaterials are fascinating and possess exceptional properties with great potential for use in water quality amelioration. As per the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6), there is a need to design the right strategies for managing current water resources and making globally available safe and affordable drinking water. For recycling as well as treating wastewater for reuse we need technological developments which are balanced and consider the environmental, social, financial and health aspects of the society. Therefore, discussed in this review article is the structural features, preparation schemes along with the properties of the carbon materials and the mechanism of removal of impurities such as heavy metals, VOCs, oils, dyes, alkyl halides and common organic contaminants present in wastewater.The detrimental effect of these contaminants when present in water on humans too has been highlighted. This study presents a comprehensive overview of the carbon materials and their composites in various dimensions befitting the cause of water redressal.