Synthesis and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles, and their applications in wastewater treatment: A review

Abstract

The sustainable growth of any society is in direct proportion with developing novel methods and technologies for the management of its environmental quality. The use of Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs) has emerged as an efficient tool for remediation of wastewater owing to its intrinsic qualities including size, surface effect, quantum effect, etc. These intrinsic properties of MNPs have diversified their application in managing the qualitative stress on water resources. The present review aims to assess the use of MNPs in removing organic and inorganic contaminants from wastewater. Insights into various synthesis methods and their effects on contaminant removal are also presented. It is reported that MNPs provide target specificity and cost-effectiveness as compared to conventional treatment methods. Moreover, the biological synthesis of MNPs is proven to be eco-friendly and aids in sustainable development. Nearly 100% removal of various types of contaminants such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, dyes, pesticides, heavy metals, etc. can be achieved through MNPs. Some MNPs have shown a magnetic saturation reaching up to 70 emu/g, and recycling up to 5 cycles with ¿95% removal efficiency. High pollutant removal efficiency (¿98%) can also be achieved in a short time (within 5 min) by MNPs. It is noteworthy that, nanosorption along with the redox reactions are the most frequently used and efficient mechanisms of contaminant removal from wastewater samples. • Synthesis methods and applications of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are reviewed. • Synthesis method is important for target specific remediation. • Biologically synthesized nanoparticles are better suited for wastewater remediation. • Green MNPs are cost-effective, target specific, and provide reusability/recyclability. • MNPs efficiently remove various organic and inorganic contaminants from wastewater.