Chapter 2 - Water-stable metal–organic framework–based nanomaterials for removal of heavy metal ions and radionuclides

Abstract

In this chapter, we systematically review the recent progress on environmental remediation of heavy metal ions and radionuclides via metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and their corresponding nanocomposites. Firstly, we summarize various synthetic methods for several well-known MOFs, including UiOs, MILs, ZIFs, and MOF-based nanomaterials. Secondly, various removal approaches for wastewater treatment are discussed, such as adsorption, catalysis, membrane separation, and ion exchange. In the main body of the chapter, we review significant contributions to the removal of heavy metal ions (As, Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg) and radionuclides (U, Tc, Sr), and adsorption performance and mechanisms are discussed in detail. Finally, we give some strategies to improve the stability, selectivity, and reusability of MOFs in wastewater remediation. MOF-based nanocomposites can be regarded as promising next-generation adsorbents; however, challenges including cost, stability, and large-scale preparation must be tackled to realize their practical application.