Biogenic polymer nanoparticles to remove hydrophobic organic contaminants from water

Abstract

Soil and water pollution is of significant concern worldwide because of the consequences of environmental degradation and harmful effects on human health. Water bodies are very much polluted from various organic and inorganic pollutants by different human activities, including industrial wastes. Environmental pollution remains high because of urbanization‐induced industrial developments and human lifestyle. It accumulates pollutants in the environment including plants and living organisms. Even mothers’ milk is poisoned because of the uncontrolled, widespread increase in pollution. The discharge levels of organic hydrophobic contaminants in the water and soil are increasing rapidly. This severe pollution must be remediated to upgrade the environment and ensure the safety of human beings. It is vital to eradicate soil and water pollution to guarantee sufficient food and water. Different techniques available to remove the pollutants vary according to the type of pollutants. Hydrophobic contaminants are more dangerous than heavy metals and other pollutants; they cannot be easily removed, requiring special care. Hydrophobic organoxenobiotics released in the environment pose severe contamination in soil and water. Therefore, developing efficient and cost‐effective processes is necessary to remove hydrophobic contaminants from soil and water. With nanoparticle‐mediated remediation techniques, the green‐synthesized nanoparticles exhibit improved performance. This review consolidates reports on the remediation techniques of hydrophobic contaminants, focusing on green‐synthesized remediation agents. The very limited works on green synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles, particularly polyurethane‐based materials for organic contaminants removal demands more attention on this area.