Chapter 3 - Applications of covalent organic framework–based nanomaterials as superior adsorbents in wastewater treatment

Abstract

With the development of industrialization, environmental pollution, especially water pollution, is related to the survival of living things on earth and has attracted global attention. To treat industrial wastewater, researchers have adopted a series of methods commonly used in industry, among which are adsorbents that remove heavy metal ions and radionuclides in wastewater. However, traditional adsorbents usually have low adsorption capacity and a slow equilibrium rate, which severely limit their application in practical environments. In the face of potential wastewater pollution problems, covalent organic frameworks stand out among many materials with good adsorption properties owing to their excellent performance. Here, we introduce the synthesis method of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) and their properties. In addition, we focus on the removal of heavy metal ions and radionuclides in wastewater through COF-based nanomaterials. Finally, current challenges of COFs in wastewater treatment are introduced and their application prospects are reviewed. The work is expected to provide environmental scientists and materials engineers with theoretical and technical ideas to apply COFs materials widely in the field of wastewater treatment.