Current Scenario of MXene-Based Nanomaterials for Wastewater Remediation: A Review

Abstract

Rapid urban and industrial sectors generate massive amounts of wastewater, creating severe ecological disruption and harming living organisms. The number of harmful pollutants such as dyes, heavy metals, antibiotics, phenolic compounds, and volatile and several organic chemicals discharged into aquatic systems varies depending on the effluent composition of various sectors. MXene-based composites with unique characteristics were spotlighted as newly developed nanomaterials specifically for environmental-related applications. Therefore, this review broadly discusses the properties, basic principles of MXene, and synthesis routes for developing different MXene-based nanomaterials. The most current strategies on the energy and environmental applications of MXene-based nanomaterials, particularly in photocatalysis, adsorption, and water splitting, were deeply explored for the remediation of different pollutants and hydrogen (H2) evolution from wastewater. The detailed mechanism for H2 evolution and the remediation of industrial pollutants via photocatalysis and adsorption processes was elaborated. The multi-roles of MXene-based nanomaterials with their regeneration possibilities were emphasized. Several essential aspects, including the economic, toxicity and ecological power of MXene-based nanomaterials, were also discussed regarding their opportunity for industrialization. Finally, the perspectives and challenges behind newly developed MXene and MXene-based nanomaterials for environmental pollution were reviewed.