Graphene-based nanomaterial: The state-of-the-art material for cutting edge desalination technology

Advanced science and technology based on graphene-based nanomaterials is experiencing a rapid rate of change in the performance capabilities to substitute or serve as alternative approaches for the existing technologies. In the context of water treatment, more particularly in field of desalination, significant numbers of breakthroughs have been achieved to drive accelerated change for ceaseless capability improvements. In this contribution, the unique features of graphene-based nanomaterials that have generated tremendous interest among the material researchers are described along with their potential applications in desalination. Another aim of this paper is to provide comprehensive scientific progress of these nanomaterials in order to explore the challenges and opportunities of graphene-based nanomaterials in advancing current desalination technology. Finally, a future prospective on how this rapidly emerging field may evolve from short to medium and long term is highlighted and the outlooks regarding the technological challenges, economical implication and toxicological impact of graphene-based nanomaterials on the environment are briefly discussed. As this novel carbon nanostructured material will certainly offer exciting and tunable features for desalination technology, it is anticipated that by grabbing the approaching opportunities and tackling the encountered challenges, these astonishing materials could very well make clean water more accessible around the globe. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.