The joint environmental fates and ecotoxicity of graphene-family nanomaterials and co-existing contaminants in the aquatic environment: A review

Abstract

Graphene family nanomaterials (GFNs), serving as vectors or catalysts for co-existing contaminants (e.g., heavy metal ions and organic chemicals) in water systems, have raised significant environmental and public health concern in the last 20 years. However, the influence of GFNs’ interactions with co-existing contaminants on their environmental fates and ecotoxicity remains poorly understood. The paper begins by outlining the primary sources of GFNs in the environment: production, application, and disposal processes, as well as from wet/dry deposition, overland runoff, and other geochemical processes. The stability and co-transport of GFNs with contaminants and influencing factors are also investigated. Additionally, the paper summarizes the effects and mechanisms of GFN interactions with co-existing contaminants, focusing on adsorption, transformation, and distribution processes. The joint toxic effects of GFNs and contaminants and their mechanisms are discussed from the perspective of trophic niche and ecosystem composition. Although the interactions between GFNs and co-existing contaminants can strongly influence ecotoxicity, there is a notable gap in comprehensive assessments of the physicochemical properties and environmental behaviors of mixed pollutants during exposure. These issues are largely limited by monitoring and exposure models of GFNs pollutants and intermediates in aquatic environments and organisms. Finally, given the unresolved issues, the direction of risk assessment and management is put forward. In summary, this paper will provide useful information for assessing and controlling ecological risks associated with GFNs and co-existing contaminants.