Clay Supported Zero Valent Iron Nanocomposites: Advancement in the Field of Green Catalyst for Abatement of Persistent Pollutant

Abstract

AbstractThe application of nanotechnology has revolutionised many industries to explore sustainable methods for the removal of persistent pollutants. Nano-zero valent iron (nZVI) is a significant nanomaterial having high surface area, reactivity, and adsorption capacity which is widely used for varying remediation techniques viz., nano-catalyst, nanofiltration, and adsorption. Moreover, nZVI particles tend to accumulate because of its magnetic interactions and oxidized when subjected to air. Hence, a capping agent or supporting material is required to stabilize the nZVI particles in aqueous solution. Materials like multiwalled carbon nanotubes, activated carbon, and polymers already been used for the stabilization of nZVI, however the cost incurred during synthesis and restoration restrict the use of such materials for environmental clean-up. Among different supporting materials clay minerals stand out as a substantial natural resource that could act as a potential candidate for nZVI stabilization. The chemical structure of clay is composed of different layers of silicon, calcium and aluminium ions that enhanced the ion exchange property and adsorption capacity of clay. Thus, allows clay to be an efficient supporting material for iron nanoparticles. This chapter depicts various aspects of surface modified clay and its utilization as a supporting material for iron nanoparticles. Later reaction mechanism of clay-nZVI on the removal of persistent pollutants also discussed.KeywordsZero-valent ironNanocompositeSurface modified clayWater treatment