Nanomaterials derived from plastic waste: Synthetic strategies, characterization, and applications in water remediation

The growing environmental crisis posed by plastic waste accumulation requires innovative strategies for waste management and resource recovery. This review critically examines the transformation of discarded plastics into valuable nanomaterials, specifically focusing on carbon nanomaterials such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes and carbon nanofibers. By converting plastic waste into carbon-rich raw materials, this approach not only addresses the pressing issue of plastic pollution, but also fosters technological advancements in materials science. The review delineates various synthetic strategies used to produce nanocomposites from plastic waste, highlighting their characterization and the potential applications of these materials in water remediation. Furthermore, it evaluates the efficacy of plastic-derived nanomaterials in enhancing water treatment processes and discusses the environmental implications of their use. Through a comprehensive analysis, this article aims to provide insight into the dual benefits of waste remediation and environmental sustainability while identifying challenges and future directions in the field of nanomaterials derived from plastic waste.