Metal/metal oxide nanocomposite membranes for water purification

The repercussions of water contamination has caused a threat to freshwater availability. Water purification is one of the processes which employs nanomaterials for various applications like adsorption, precipitation or membrane technologies. The only intention is to increase the effectiveness and overcome drawbacks of membrane technologies such as fouling and less durability. Various metal/metal oxide (i.e. TiO2, Al, ZrO2 etc.) polymeric membranes have been analysed for these properties after different modifications. Nanomaterials have a capability of achieving this by imparting larger surface area, selectivity, permeability, resistance, strength and other potential properties. This paper intensively discusses the limitations of traditional methods and processes of how modifications can prove to be part of the solution for ending the global water crisis. Furthermore, special attention has been given to present challenges and future scopes of these nanomembranes in water treatment. ? 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the International Conference on Materials, Processing & Characterization.

Automated summary

This paper discusses the threat of water contamination to freshwater availability and the application of nanomaterials in water purification. Research has shown that nanomaterials can enhance the efficiency of membrane technologies, overcome their drawbacks, and potentially serve as part of the solution to ending the global water crisis.