Porous Graphene-Based Materials for Enhanced Adsorption Towards Emerging Micropollutants (EMs)

Abstract

Contaminated wastewater with emerging micropollutants (EMs) has become a pressing issue that affects humankind which requires immediate global attention. Recently, graphene composites have been explored as potential adsorbents in the remediation of various emerging micropollutants ascribed to their excellent physicochemical and textural properties. Numerous processes such as doping, grafting, and chemical treatment have been utilized to modify the graphene composite to enhance its adsorption. Since the past decade, ample peer-reviewed articles have been published on the adsorption of various classes of micropollutants using graphene composite materials. This chapter’s primary objective is to compile the most recent findings on the use of graphene composites for the adsorption of specific EMs and their detailed mechanism thereof. Additionally, we discussed the feasibility of their operational parameters, regeneration, and continuous use in actual wastewater treatment. We further suggest potential research directions to address existing knowledge gaps, needs, and challenges concerning the adsorption of micropollutants by graphene composites.