Nanomaterials for Water Treatment: Breakthroughs and Potential Applications

Manas Sheth

Abstract: Clean water is essential for human well - being, but the demand for water treatment is increasing as the global population grows. Nanotechnology offers promising solutions for improving water treatment processes, utilizing nanomaterials with unique properties and functionalities. This research paper will explore the application of nanomaterials in water treatment and discuss the mechanisms behind their effectiveness. Specifically, it will delve into the adsorption mechanisms, such as surface interactions, ion exchange, and electrostatic attractions, that enable nanomaterials to remove contaminants from water sources. Additionally, it will explore the photocatalytic mechanisms by which nanomaterials, particularly titanium dioxide nanoparticles, facilitate the degradation of organic pollutants and the inactivation of microorganisms. Furthermore, it will highlight recent breakthroughs and advances in nanomaterials for resource recovery from wastewater, including the extraction and immobilization of valuable metals and the utilization of nanomaterial - based systems for energy harvesting. The research findings demonstrate the potential of nanotechnology in enhancing water treatment efficiency, achieving resource recovery, and promoting sustainable energy production. These developments pave the way for future advancements and potential applications of nanomaterials in water treatment processes.

Keywords: Nanomaterials, Water treatment, Adsorption mechanisms, Photocatalytic mechanisms, Nanomaterials, Nanoparticles, Graphene - based nanomaterials, Carbon nanotubes, Zeolites, Titanium dioxide nanoparticles, water treatment, aggregation, Dispersibility