Current Role of Nanomaterials in Environmental Remediation

Abstract

Natural causes of pollution are unavoidable; however, man-made pollution is increasing and causing alarming health issues, declining availability of clean water, and a lesser supply of good food. The limitations of conventional methods and materials used in water remediation to eliminate organic, inorganic, and microbial contaminants have prompted the research community to pursue nanotechnological aids for environmental needs. Nanomaterials have great advantages over bulk materials because of their greater surface area, higher reactivity, and hence better performance. The size effect of nanomaterialas is more of realistic perspective; thus, future technologies will be more focused on product development of nanotechnology for low cost but could extend to high-end users. In this chapter, we discuss nanostructured materials in the carbon family and the importance of metal oxides and magnetic materials in environmental remediation. We also outline the present need for nanomaterials in environmental applications and the nanomaterials currently being used for water remediation, antibacterial coatings, and biosensor applications.