Chapter 1 - Novel nanomaterials for environmental remediation of toxic metal ions and radionuclides

Abstract

The global environment has been compromised in various ways, leading to problems such as heavy metal ions and radionuclide contamination. Novel nanomaterials are promising for the treatment of polluted water owing to their special physicochemical properties. This chapter focuses on novel nanomaterials and remediation technologies for the treatment of heavy and radioactive ions. First, the chemical behavior of different metal ions and radionuclides (e.g., Cr, As, Pb, Hg, U, Tc, and Sr) in solution are discussed. Then, advantages and disadvantages of various remediation technologies including adsorption, membrane filtration, ion exchange, chemical precipitation, electrochemical treatment, and bioremediation are discussed. Subsequently, the properties, preparation methods, and applications of novel nanomaterials such as metal-organic framework, covalent organic framework, MXene, nanoscale zero-valent iron, and carbon-based nanomaterials are systematic discussed. Finally, expectations are briefly discussed and the work is summarized.