Advent of Graphene Oxide and Carbon Nanotubes in Removal of Heavy Metals from Water: A Review

Abstract

Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and mercury are often found in freshwater sources, and their dissolution is due to many natural and artificial factors. These heavy metals are known to be bio-accumulants and non-biodegradable in nature and hence can cause a number of diseases in humans. Their removal has, hence, become an issue of prime concern in the field of water and wastewater engineering. Recent studies have shown the potential of carbon-based nanomaterials in uptake and removal of these metals by the process of adsorption. This study has focused on the two major carbon-based adsorbents, namely graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes. The major researches carried out with the help of these nanomaterials in removal of heavy metals have been highlighted in this literature along with their adsorption capacities. This paper will help the readers to select the appropriate nanomaterial for removal of the required heavy metal from water with respect to the ambient reaction parameters.