Integrated detection and natural remediation technology as a low-cost alternative for wastewater treatment

Abstract

Water pollution has become a worldwide concern because the demand for fresh water is increasing exponentially, while its availability is under threat. There is a societal need to treat wastewater to save our freshwater bodies from becoming polluted. Although several techniques are acquirable in the market to purify polluted water, such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange, membrane process, etc., they are expensive. This review delves into recent developments in heavy metal ions detection via nanosensors and natural remediation technologies for wastewater treatment. Current trends of plant utilization in NPs synthesis for heavy metal ions sensing and natural remediation processes are focused on and addressed ahead. A hypothetical model using first nanosensor to detect heavy metal ions and later natural remediation techniques for wastewater treatment has been put forward. The proposed model facilitated by further research inputs may pave the way for potential and efficient wastewater treatment. This review begins with an introduction to heavy metal pollution, nanotechnology, its role in water treatment and green synthesis of nanoparticles. Then, it covers the detection of toxic metal ions using green synthesized nanosensors. Followed by recent advancements in natural remediation technologies such as waste stabilization ponds, floating rafts, phytoremediation, phytofilters and dendroremediation.