Use Of Carbon-based Nanomaterials Research Articles

Carbon-Based Nanocomposite Membranes for Membrane Distillation: Progress, Problems and Future Prospects.

The development of an ideal membrane for membrane distillation (MD) is of the utmost importance. Enhancing the efficiency of MD by adding nanoparticles to or onto a membrane's surface has drawn considerable attention from the scientific community. It is crucial to thoroughly examine state-of-the-art nanomaterials-enabled MD membranes with desirable properties, as they greatly enhance the efficiency and reliability of the MD process. This, in turn, opens up opportunities for achieving a sustainable water-energy-environment nexus. By introducing carbon-based nanomaterials into the membrane's structure, the membrane gains excellent separation abilities, resistance to various feed waters, and a longer lifespan. Additionally, the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in MD has led to improved membrane performance characteristics such as increased permeability and a reduced fouling propensity. These nanomaterials have also enabled novel membrane capabilities like in situ foulant degradation and localized heat generation. Therefore, this review offers an overview of how the utilization of different carbon-based nanomaterials in membrane synthesis impacts the membrane characteristics, particularly the liquid entry pressure (LEP), hydrophobicity, porosity, and membrane permeability, as well as reduced fouling, thereby advancing the MD technology for water treatment processes. Furthermore, this review also discusses the development, challenges, and research opportunities that arise from these findings.

Can bacteria and carbon-based nanomaterials revolutionize nanoremediation strategies for industrial effluents?

In this study, we delved into cutting-edge strategies for the effective management of wastewater, a critical issue exacerbated by industrial pollution and urban expansion. We introduce the use of carbon-based nanomaterials (CBNs), either alone or functionalized with bacteria, as a novel nanobiotechnological solution for urgent nanobioremediation needs. This technique is notable for its exceptional ability to remove various industrial pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, textiles, and dyes, emphasizing the pivotal role of CBNs. The development of bionanocomposites through the integration of CBNs with bacteria represents a significant advancement in enhancing bioremediation efforts. In this study, we assessed the potential health and environmental risks associated with CBN usage while offering an in-depth evaluation of the adsorption mechanisms and factors influencing bioremediation effectiveness. Furthermore, the improved efficiency in treating industrial effluents facilitated by bionanocomposites was investigated, and their alignment with circular economy principles through recyclability is discussed. We aimed to provide, a detailed overview of recent advancements, challenges, and prospects for CBNs and bacterial application in sophisticated wastewater treatment, underscoring their vital importance in promoting the environment.

A comparative study of structural and catalytic activity alterations in firefly luciferase induced by carbon quantum dots containing amine and carboxyl functional groups

Despite of growing interest in use of carbon-based nanomaterials as carriers of functional proteins, less attention has been paid to the effects of these nanomaterials on the structure and function of the proteins. In this study, with the aim of shedding light on the mechanisms of interaction between carbon-based nanomaterials and proteins, the interactions of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) containing amine (CQD-NH2) or carboxyl groups (CQD-COOH) with Photinus pyralis firefly luciferase enzyme were investigated by experimental and computational approaches. The structural changes and reduction in activity of the luciferase upon treatment with CQDs were experimentally proved. CQD-NH2 induced more reduction in enzyme activity (15 %) compared to CQD-COOH (7.4 %). The interactions CQD-NH2 with luciferase led to higher affinity of the enzyme for its substrate. It was found by molecular dynamic simulations that CQD-NH2 binds to multiple regions on the surface of luciferase. Secondary structure analysis showed that CQD-NH2 had more profound effects on the active site amino acids, the adjacent amino acids to the active site and the residues involved in ATP binding site. In addition, CQD-NH2 interactions with luciferase were suggested to be stronger than CQD-COOH based on the number of hydrogen bonds and the binding energies.

Carbon nanomaterials for biomedical applications: A comprehensive review

Carbon-based nanomaterials have emerged as promising candidates for a wide range of biomedical applications due to their unique physicochemical properties and biocompatibility. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of the recent advancements and potential applications of carbon-based nanomaterials in the field of biomedicine. The review begins by discussing the different types of carbon-based nanomaterials, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, and fullerenes, highlighting their distinct structures and properties. It then explores the synthesis and functionalization strategies employed to tailor their physicochemical properties, facilitating their integration into various biomedical platforms. Furthermore, the review delves into the applications of carbon-based nanomaterials in biomedicine, focusing on three major areas: diagnostics, therapeutics, and tissue engineering. In diagnostics, carbon-based nanomaterials have demonstrated their utility as biosensors, imaging agents, and platforms for disease detection and monitoring. In therapeutics, they have been utilized for drug delivery, gene therapy, and photothermal therapy, among others. Additionally, carbon-based nanomaterials have shown great potential in tissue engineering, where they have been employed as scaffolds, biosensors, and substrates for cell growth and differentiation. The review also highlights the challenges and considerations associated with the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in biomedical applications, including toxicity concerns, biocompatibility, and regulatory considerations. Moreover, it discusses the current trends and future prospects in this rapidly evolving field, such as the development of multifunctional nanomaterials, combination therapies, and personalized medicine.

Effect of Coarse Aggregate and Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes on Heat Generation of Concrete

Many researchers are developing heating construction materials to remove black ice from roads, addressing the scientific challenges associated with this issue. The use of carbon-based nanomaterials in concrete is of great interest due to the excellent electrical and thermal conductivity of this material. In this study, the incorporation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into concrete compositions results in the formation of MWCNT bridge networks. MWCNTs exhibit a low specific heat and possess the ability to promptly generate raised temperatures with minimal power input. This characteristic has the potential to induce temperature variations in concrete. The heat generation test parameters for MWCNT concrete included the mixing concentration of the MWCNTs, the mixing ratio of coarse aggregate, the water/cement (W/C) ratio, and the presence or absence of superplasticizers. The heating performance of concrete was found to improve as the mixing concentration of the MWCNTs increased, while a heating performance decrease was observed as the mixing ratio of coarse aggregate increased, owing to the reduced dispersibility of the MWCNTs. Conversely, the heating performance improved when the W/C ratio increased due to the enhanced dispersibility of the MWCNTs. Moreover, superplasticizers assist in dispersing MWCNTs, thereby improving the heating performance. Additionally, field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed that MWCNTs form a bridge network between the cement hydrates. As a result of this study, the maximum temperature variation of concrete mixed with MWCNTs was up to 73.6 °C. Therefore, by mixing MWCNT aqueous solutions with concrete and using an appropriate W/C ratio and superplasticizer, a new construction material capable of enhanced heating performance was developed.

Electrochemical Detection of Hormones Using Nanostructured Electrodes

Hormones regulate several physiological processes in living organisms, and their detection requires accuracy and sensitivity. Recent advances in nanostructured electrodes for the electrochemical detection of hormones are described. Nanostructured electrodes’ high surface area, electrocatalytic activity, and sensitivity make them a strong hormone detection platform. This paper covers nanostructured electrode design and production using MOFs, zeolites, carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, and 2D materials such as TMDs, Mxenes, graphene, and conducting polymers onto electrodes surfaces that have been used to confer distinct characteristics for the purpose of electrochemical hormone detection. The use of aptamers for hormone recognition is producing especially promising results, as is the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in composite electrodes. These materials are optimized for hormone detection, allowing trace-level quantification. Various electrochemical techniques such as SWV, CV, DPV, EIS, and amperometry are reviewed in depth for hormone detection, showing the ability for quick, selective, and quantitative evaluation. We also discuss hormone immobilization on nanostructured electrodes to improve detection stability and specificity. We focus on real-time monitoring and tailored healthcare with nanostructured electrode-based hormone detection in clinical diagnostics, wearable devices, and point-of-care testing. These nanostructured electrode-based assays are useful for endocrinology research and hormone-related disease diagnostics due to their sensitivity, selectivity, and repeatability. We conclude with nanotechnology–microfluidics integration and tiny portable hormone-detection devices. Nanostructured electrodes can improve hormone regulation and healthcare by facilitating early disease diagnosis and customized therapy.

Adsorptive removal of heavy metals, dyes, and pharmaceuticals: Carbon-based nanomaterials in focus

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials, including carbon nanotubes, carbon dots, graphene/graphene oxide, fullerene, and their derivatives, in the removal of emerging pollutants from wastewater has become a promising method in water treatment. These nanomaterials exhibit exceptional adsorption capabilities and selectivity due to their extensive surface area, customizable surface chemistry, and unique structural features, which involve factors like π-π interactions, electrostatic interactions, and specific surface functional groups. A notable experiment demonstrated the effectiveness of carbon nanotubes as adsorbents for removing Ismate violet 2R dye from contaminated water. The results showed a remarkable maximum removal efficiency of 91.71 % at a concentration of 10 mg/L within a brief 120-min period. This article conducts a comprehensive evaluation of the adsorptive removal of emerging pollutants from wastewater using carbon-based nanomaterials, with a focus on developments between 2015 and 2023. An in-depth bibliometric analysis of 1285 research publications retrieved from the Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases reveals a substantial increase in the number of publications, rising from 50 in 2015 to 158 in 2023. This signifies a burgeoning emphasis on both practical application and technological advancement in this domain. Furthermore, this review explores the intricacies of adsorption mechanisms, factors influencing the adsorption performance of carbon-based nanomaterials, and the associated challenges and limitations when applied in wastewater treatment. By thoroughly investigating these constraints and potential advantages, this article provides valuable insights for the development of future carbon-based nanomaterials, aiming to enhance their efficiency and expand their applications in the field of wastewater treatment.

Exposure Assessment and Risk Characterization of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials at Different Production Scales

Data on the potential impact on human health of engineered nanomaterials are still scarce, with an evident lack of knowledge on the exposure levels at all stages of the life cycle. By prioritizing the responsible handling of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), companies can promote sustainability by minimizing the risks of occupational exposure, protecting employee well-being, reducing liability, and avoiding costly environmental remediation efforts. This research aims to evaluate the risk in real scenarios involving the use of carbon-based nanomaterials in research laboratories, pilot-scale facilities, and industrial settings. Several online and offline instruments have been employed to characterize the particulate matter present in these environments, including particles in the nanometer range and relevant fractions for risk assessment purposes. Samples collected on polycarbonate filters were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Exposure estimation has been performed by applying a decision based on tier 2 from the nanoGEM methodology, with the weighing and transferring of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) in a pilot plant being the most liberating processes, which are the activities with the highest risk of exposure. In addition, high levels of particle concentration, with peaks up to 1.7 × 105 and 4.7 × 105 part/cm3, have been found for the dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and incorporation of carbonaceous nanoparticles into resins, respectively.

Carbon Nanocomposites in Aerospace Technology: A Way to Protect Low-Orbit Satellites.

Recent advancements in space technology and reduced launching cost led companies, defence and government organisations to turn their attention to low Earth orbit (LEO) and very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellites, for they offer significant advantages over other types of spacecraft and present an attractive solution for observation, communication and other tasks. However, keeping satellites in LEO and VLEO presents a unique set of challenges, in addition to those typically associated with exposure to space environment such as damage from space debris, thermal fluctuations, radiation and thermal management in vacuum. The structural and functional elements of LEO and especially VLEO satellites are significantly affected by residual atmosphere and, in particular, atomic oxygen (AO). At VLEO, the remaining atmosphere is dense enough to create significant drag and quicky de-orbit satellites; thus, thrusters are needed to keep them on a stable orbit. Atomic oxygen-induced material erosion is another key challenge to overcome during the design phase of LEO and VLEO spacecraft. This review covered the corrosion interactions between the satellites and the low orbit environment, and how it can be minimised through the use of carbon-based nanomaterials and their composites. The review also discussed key mechanisms and challenges underpinning material design and fabrication, and it outlined the current research in this area.

Graphene Oxide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanomaterials for Targeted Photothermal Cancer Therapy

Abstract: A combination of cancer therapy (hyperthermia with other therapies) holds tremendous potential for therapeutic improvement. Conventional methods of inducing hyperthermia are incapable of limiting a high-temperature increase at the tumor location while also preserving unexposed healthy tissues. Different materials available are not suitable for the combined application of hyperthermia and photothermal therapy (PTT). The use of carbonbased nanomaterials for cancer therapy has increased rapidly due to their ability to transport various anticancer drugs and to function as a photothermal agent. In this regard, the graphene family of 2D carbon nanomaterial graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has emerged as a promising candidate for cancer PTT due to its excellent photothermal conversion in the near-infrared range, large specific surface area for drug loading, and scope for functionalization with functional groups/ molecules such as photosensitizers, siRNA, ligands, and so on with no cumulative toxicity. The availability of functional groups such as hydroxyls, epoxides, and carbonyls on GO groups, renders flexible modification leading to biocompatibility, facilitating it for an ideal drug delivery vector. In the present review, recent advances in combinational PTT providing synergistic benefits of multiple modalities are discussed.

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials conjugated to cobalt phthalocyanine complex in the electrochemical detection of nitrite

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials conjugated to cobalt phthalocyanine complex in the electrochemical detection of nitrite

Interactions between graphene oxide and polyester microplastics changed their phototransformation process and potential environmental risks: Mechanism insights

Co-existence of microplastics (MPs) and carbon-based nanomaterials is expected to be a common scenario in the natural environment as the large amount of plastics discarded into the environment and the wide spread use of carbon-based nanomaterials. Unfortunately, knowledge on their interaction in water under light irradiation remains limited. In this study, interaction between graphene oxide (GO) and polyethylene terephthalate MPs (PET MPs) as well as changes in their potential risks under phototransformation process are systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that GO has a stronger inhibitory effect on the phototansformation of PET MPs with smaller particle size. Interestingly, incorporation of GO on the surface of PET MPs was quantified with carbon-14-labeled graphene (14C-LG), and it was found that more GO was bonded on the smaller size PET MPs. Furthermore, a higher adsorption capacity toward triclosan (TCS) was observed in the GO-bonded PET MPs, suggesting that GO-bonded PET MPs would pose higher potential environmental risks. Overall, this study reveals the interaction between GO and PET MPs in their phototransformation process and the enhanced potential environmental risks caused by the incorporation of GO on PET MPs, which is helpful to understand their environmental fate and risks.

Recent trends in analysis of mycotoxins in food using carbon-based nanomaterials

Mycotoxins (MYTs), a class of low molecular weight secondary metabolites produced by filamentous fungi in food and feed, pose serious global threat to both human health and world economy. Due to their mutagenic, teratogenic, carcinogenic and immunosuppressive effects, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified various MYTs under Group 1 to 3 category with aflatoxins being designated under Group 1 category (carcinogenic to humans). Also, the presence of MYTs in trace amounts in diverse food matrices necessitates exploration of highly sensitive methods for onsite analysis. Although conventional chromatographic methods are highly sensitive, they are expensive, tedious and cannot be applied for rapid onsite analysis. In recent years the application of nanomaterials especially carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) in the fabrication of low-cost and miniaturized electrochemical and optical sensors has enabled rapid onsite analysis of MYTs with high sensitivity and specificity. Moreover, the CNMs are employed as effective solid phase extraction (SPE) adsorbents possessing high specific surface area for effective enrichment of MYTs to improve the sensitivity of chromatographic methods for MYT analysis in food. This article aims to overview the recent trends in the application of CNMs as SPE adsorbents for sample pretreatment in chromatographic methods as well as in the fabrication of highly sensitive electrochemical and optical sensors for rapid analysis of MYTs in food. Initially, the efficiency of various functionalized CNMs developed recently as adsorbent in packed SPE cartridges and dispersive SPE adsorbent/purification powder is discussed. Then, their application in the development of various electrochemical immunosensors involving functionalized carbon nanotubes/nanofibers, graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide and graphene quantum dots is summarized. In addition, the recent trends in the use of CNMs for fabrication of electrochemical and fluorescence aptasensors as well as some other colorimetry, fluorometry, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical based sensors are compared and tabulated. Collectively, this review article can provide a research update on analysis of MYTs by carbon-based nanomaterials paving a way for identifying future perspectives.

Response surface methodology to predict the effects of graphene nanoplatelets addition to diesel engine performance

Engine emissions have become one of the major problems of the world today. Therefore, researchers need to find ways to reduce engine emissions. There are many available methods to reduce emissions or improve engine performance such as using an alternative engine or using alternative fuels. The simplest method is by introducing additives to the currently used fuel and engines. Nanoparticles of zinc oxide, titanium oxide, aluminium oxide, and cerium oxide are among the popular additives used by researchers. The results from the research have been very positive, as it successfully reduced engine emissions. However, there are concerns about the toxicity of the emissions that exposed hazards to human health. A few researchers introduced carbon-based nanomaterials as an additive to improve engine performance and reduce engine emissions. The use of carbon-based nanomaterials is very promising since it poses little to no effect on human health. Graphene is a carbon-based nanomaterial used as an additive in this study. This study aimed to forecast the effects of graphene nanoplatelets’ addition to engine performance. The study used torque, power, brake-specific fuel consumption, and brake thermal efficiency as performance parameters. The prediction models consider speed, load, and blend concentration in the calculation. A full-quadratic model with help of Minitab software is used to develop the prediction model. The model is then presented in surface plot and contour plot. The results show that the prediction model agrees with the experimental data with ±10% accuracy. In conclusion, the RSM model of graphene nanoplatelets’ effects on diesel engine performance is producible using full quadratic calculation.

Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxide as a Versatile Tool for Cancer Therapy.

Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in human history with extremely poor prognosis. Although many traditional therapeutic modalities—such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy—have proved to be successful in inhibiting the growth of tumor cells, their side effects may vastly limited the actual benefits and patient acceptance. In this context, a nanomedicine approach for cancer therapy using functionalized nanomaterial has been gaining ground recently. Considering the ability to carry various anticancer drugs and to act as a photothermal agent, the use of carbon-based nanomaterials for cancer therapy has advanced rapidly. Within those nanomaterials, reduced graphene oxide (rGO), a graphene family 2D carbon nanomaterial, emerged as a good candidate for cancer photothermal therapy due to its excellent photothermal conversion in the near infrared range, large specific surface area for drug loading, as well as functional groups for functionalization with molecules such as photosensitizers, siRNA, ligands, etc. By unique design, multifunctional nanosystems could be designed based on rGO, which are endowed with promising temperature/pH-dependent drug/gene delivery abilities for multimodal cancer therapy. This could be further augmented by additional advantages offered by functionalized rGO, such as high biocompatibility, targeted delivery, and enhanced photothermal effects. Herewith, we first provide an overview of the most effective reducing agents for rGO synthesis via chemical reduction. This was followed by in-depth review of application of functionalized rGO in different cancer treatment modalities such as chemotherapy, photothermal therapy and/or photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, chemotherapy/phototherapy, and photothermal/immunotherapy.

Toxicity of three carbon-based nanomaterials to earthworms: Effect of morphology on biomarkers, cytotoxicity, and metabolomics

Widespread use of carbon-based nanomaterials (CNs) leads to their accumulation in the terrestrial ecosystem, persistently threatening faunal biodiversity and the entire environment. However, less is known about the influence of high concentration CNs on soil biota than on atmospheric or aquatic organisms. In this study, the impacts of three CNs, carbon black (CB), reduced graphene oxide (RGO), and single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) are compared on Eisenia fetida , an early warning soil invertebrate for pollution events. Observations revealed a morphology-dependent toxicity of CNs to earthworms. The aspect ratio and hydrodynamic size of CNs most likely dictated their adverse effects on the body weights, antioxidant systems, coelomocytes, and non-targeted metabolomic profiles of the worms. Multivariate regression analyses showed that the CNs with a higher aspect ratio (SWCNT followed by RGO) exerted more stress on the metabolic processes of earthworms. Cell viability and the phenylalanine to leucine ratio were distinct biomarkers that indicated the detrimental extent of the various forms of CNs. Membrane-associated metabolite choline changes indicated that the potential harm of the sharp CNs may have been due to membrane disruption. These results highly suggested that the soil environmental risk of CNs was related to their particle morphology, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the nano-agriculture. • The impact of three carbon-based nanomaterials on Eisenia fetida were compared. • LC-MS based metabolomic was used to detect sub-lethal toxicity. • Carbon nanomaterials exhibited morphology and dosage-dependent effect on the biomarkers. • Particle aspect ratio and hydrodynamic size dictated the extent of membrane damage.

Pyrolytic synthesis of organosilane-functionalized carbon nanoparticles for enhanced photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light irradiation.

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials as effective photocatalysts is an ideal alternative for environmental remediation. Here, (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane-functionalized carbon nanoparticles (SiCNPs) were prepared using a simple pyrolysis method with sodium citrate and urea as the precursors. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and photo-electrochemical measures. The obtained SiCNPs-2.0 showed a better visible light response and more effective photocatalytic activity for degradation of methylene blue (MB) compared with pure CNPs. Under visible light irradiation, 98.8% of the MB was decomposed within 75 min when SiCNPs-2.0 was used as the photocatalyst. The high photocatalytic activities of SiCNPs-2.0 could be attributed to enhanced light absorption in the visible region, and improved photogenerated electron-hole separation efficiency. A possible photocatalytic mechanism for removal of MB over SiCNPs-2.0 was proposed based on active species trapping experiments. Recycling experiments showed that SiCNPs-2.0 had good stability during photocatalysis. This work provides a new easy method to synthesize carbon-based nanomaterials and to catalytically degrade organic pollutants in water under visible light irradiation.

Carbon Nanomaterials for Biomedical Application.

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials (CNs) with outstanding properties has been rising in many scientific and industrial application fields. These CNs represent a tunable alternative for applications with biomolecules, which allow interactions in either covalent or noncovalent way. Diverse carbon-derived nanomaterial family exhibits unique features and has been widely exploited in various biomedical applications, including biosensing, diagnosis, cancer therapy, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. In this chapter, we aim to present an overview of CNs with a particular interest in intrinsic structural, electronic, and chemical properties. In particular, the detailed properties and features of CNs and its derivatives, including carbon nanotube (CNT), graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and reduced GO (rGO) are summarized. The interesting biomedical applications are also reviewed in order to offer an overview of the possible fields for scientific and industrial applications of CNs.

Atomistic Perspective on Biomolecular Adsorption on Functionalized Carbon Nanomaterials under Ambient Conditions.

The use of carbon-based nanomaterials is tremendously increasing in various areas of technological, bioengineering, and biomedical applications. The functionality of carbon-based nanomaterials can be further broadened via chemical functionalization of carbon nanomaterial surfaces. On the other hand, concern is rising on possible adverse effects when nanomaterials are taken up by biological organisms. In order to contribute into understanding of interactions of carbon-based nanomaterials with biological matter, we have investigated adsorption of small biomolecules on nanomaterials using enhanced sampling molecular dynamics. The biomolecules included amino acid side chain analogues, fragments of lipids, and sugar monomers. The adsorption behavior on unstructured amorphous carbon, pristine graphene and its derivatives (such as few-layer graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide) as well as pristine carbon nanotubes, and those functionalized with OH–, COOH–, COO–, NH2–, and NH3+ groups was investigated with respect to surface concentration. An adsorption profile, that is, the free energy as a function of distance from the nanomaterial surfaces, was determined for each molecule and surface using the Metadynamics approach. The results were analyzed in terms of chemical specificity, surface charge, and surface concentration. It was shown that although morphology of the nanomaterial has a limited effect on the adsorption properties, functionalization of the surface by various molecular groups can drastically change the adsorption behavior that can be used in the design of nanosurfaces with highly selective adsorption properties and safe for human health and environment.

Carbon-based nanomaterials: Synthesis and prospective applications

Abstract Carbon has been one of the chief elements in the civilization of the earth. It forms strong bonds than any other materials in different forms. In the past three decades, several carbon-based nanomaterials have been developed through various synthesis processes. Their unique morphology and multifaceted properties have enabled them to be used in multidisciplinary fields. Energy storage and production, water and wastewater treatment, and biomedical employment are few applications of carbon-based nanomaterials. This paper lays emphasis on the four most outstanding carbon-based nanomaterials i.e. carbon nanotubes, buckminsterfullerene, activated carbon, and graphene oxide. A comprehensive description of the various synthesis methods and cross-disciplinary applications have been discussed. This review also highlights the challenges faced whilst giving a methodical approach to the potential use of carbon-based nanomaterials. The study is aimed to provide a close evaluation of these materials which will be useful for the future development of carbon-based nanomaterials and will attract a broad area of applications.