Engineered nanoparticles for removal of pollutants from wastewater: Current status and future prospects of nanotechnology for remediation strategies

Significant aspects of the world's water scenario, primarily associated with global population growth and climate change, necessitate new technology implementation to ensure a supply of drinking water and prevent global water contamination. In light of this, the incorporation of state-of-the-art nanotechnology in conventional process engineering opens new paths for improved wastewater treatment technologies. Nano-based materials techniques, such as disinfection, desalination, sensing and monitoring, photocatalysis, membrane process, adsorption, biological treatment, coagulation/precipitation, and oxidation are discussed in this overview of current breakthroughs in nanotechnologies for removal of pollutants from wastewater. The benefits of these nano-based materials for wastewater treatment approaches, as well as the technical challenges are discussed in this review. The current state of commercialization, as well as future research opportunities in nano-based materials and technologies are highlighted. Additionally, the anticipated scientific breakthroughs, the constraints of nanotechnology for desalination processes, such as rules and regulations, and potential health risks are addressed. The regulation of nanoengineered materials and technologies used in wastewater treatment is being addressed in both Europe and United States of America.

Automated summary

The global water situation requires the introduction of new technologies to ensure the supply of drinking water, and the incorporation of nanotechnology can improve wastewater treatment technologies. Current nanomaterial techniques cover a variety of methods for removing pollutants from wastewater, while also facing technical challenges and the current status of commercialization and future research opportunities.