Advancement in nanomaterials for environmental pollutants remediation: a systematic review on bibliometrics analysis, material types, synthesis pathways, and related mechanisms

Abstract

Environmental pollution is a major issue that requires effective solutions. Nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as promising candidates for pollution remediation due to their unique properties. This review paper provides a systematic analysis of the potential of NMs for environmental pollution remediation compared to conventional techniques. It elaborates on several aspects, including conventional and advanced techniques for removing pollutants, classification of NMs (organic, inorganic, and composite base). The efficiency of NMs in remediation of pollutants depends on their dispersion and retention, with each type of NM having different advantages and disadvantages. Various synthesis pathways for NMs, including traditional synthesis (chemical and physical) and biological synthesis pathways, mechanisms of reaction for pollutants removal using NMs, such as adsorption, filtration, disinfection, photocatalysis, and oxidation, also are evaluated. Additionally, this review presents suggestions for future investigation strategies to improve the efficacy of NMs in environmental remediation. The research so far provides strong evidence that NMs could effectively remove contaminants and may be valuable assets for various industrial purposes. However, further research and development are necessary to fully realize this potential, such as exploring new synthesis pathways and improving the dispersion and retention of NMs in the environment. Furthermore, there is a need to compare the efficacy of different types of NMs for remediating specific pollutants. Overall, this review highlights the immense potential of NMs for mitigating environmental pollutants and calls for more research in this direction. Graphical Abstract

Nanotechnology Approaches for the Remediation of Agricultural Polluted Soils

“…The use of nanomaterials enhances the processes of adsorption and oxidation, enabling the degradation and removal of micropollutants that persist in the soil environment . Widely used nanotechnological applications in soil remediation for contaminant removal include carbon nanomaterials, iron­(III) oxide (Fe 3 O 4 ), titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), zinc oxide (ZnO), nZVI, and nanocomposites . Notably, nZVI is the most commonly used nanoparticle for eliminating heavy metal pollutants owing to its high efficiency in transforming contaminants such as toxic metals, chlorinated organic compounds, and inorganic compounds into less harmful forms …”

Carbon based sensors for air quality monitoring networks; middle east perspective

“…These sensors are categorized based on their performance, cost effectiveness as well as working conditions. A smart IAQ monitoring network works with on-the-go data transfer from sensors to server on cloud for subsequent IAQ processing and evaluation ( Husain et al, 2007 ; Arar and Jung, 2022 ; Asghar et al, 2024 ). IoT based network also comprises of end equipment and communication exchange facilities.…”

“…IoT-based systems have brought significant advancements to air quality monitoring in the Middle East, leading to a deeper understanding of pollution trends, notable improvements, and positive changes in public awareness and policies. IoT-based systems provide real-time and precise data on air quality, allowing for the identification of pollution hotspots and the sources of contaminants ( Him et al, 2019 ; Sai et al, 2019 ; Bousiotis et al, 2021 ; Saini et al, 2021 ; Buelvas et al, 2023 ; Asghar et al, 2024 ). Continuous monitoring has revealed seasonal and diurnal pollution patterns, aiding in the development of targeted mitigation strategies ( Chen et al, 2015 ; Ammar et al, 2018 ; Din et al, 2019 ; Hassan et al, 2020 ; Saini et al, 2021 ; Saini et al, 2021 ; Buelvas et al, 2023 ).…”

Investigating UV-Irradiation Parameters in the Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles from Water Hyacinth Leaf Extract: Optimization for Future Sensor Applications

“…In recent years, nanoparticles have obtained remarkable attention due to their exclusive properties and potential utilization [ 1 ] in various fields, including medicine [ 2 ], cosmetics [ 3 ], textiles [ 4 ], engineering, catalysis [ 5 ], and environmental remediation [ 6 , 7 ]. Among the various types of nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been extensively investigated because of their excellent optical [ 8 ], electrical [ 9 ], and biological properties [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ].…”