Chapter 12 - Functionalization of graphene oxide with metal oxide nanomaterials: synthesis and applications for the removal of inorganic, toxic, environmental pollutants from water

Abstract

Pollution of soil, water, and air is a worldwide problem affecting the ecoenvironment and human society. Removal of various inorganic pollutants including highly toxic heavy metal ions (Cr, As, Pd, Cd, and Hg) and fluoride from the environment is a vital challenge. Adsorption techniques are usually simple, cost effective, and highly efficient. However, the adsorption capacities of materials depend on their porous structure and surface properties. Graphene oxide (GO) is a carbonaceous material containing various functional groups (hydroxyl, epoxy, and carboxyl) and has been used effectively for removal of various pollutants from wastewater. It possesses extraordinary characteristics such as effective surface functional groups, large theoretical surface area, and good chemical stability. Recent research has focused on development of nanostructured metal oxides functionalized on GO–substrate and their application for the removal of toxic metal ions and hazardous chemicals from aqueous solution by adsorption. Development of functionalized GO with different metal oxide nanocomposites for efficient toxic ions removal and improved adsorption capacity has also been researched. Adsorption affinity, mechanisms, and factors affecting sorption capacities are discussed here. This chapter summarizes the synthesis of recently developed metal oxide-decorated GO–nanocomposite and its use as nanoadsorbent for the removal of inorganic, toxic, environmental pollutants from water.