Graphene-based adsorbents for the removal of toxic organic pollutants: A review

• Published in: Journal of environmental management 2019-08, Vol.244, p.370-382
• Main Authors: Baig, Nadeem, Ihsanullah, Sajid, Muhammad, Saleh, Tawfik A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adsorption; Graphene; Magnetically modified graphene; Oil industry; Organic pollutants; Water treatment
• ISSN: 0301-4797; 1095-8630
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.05.047

The synthesis and application of efficient materials for remediation of environmental contaminants from water is an emerging area of research. Graphene has received tremendous attention in various fields due to its exceptional properties. Graphene and its derivatives have also been extensively explored for the adsorptive removal of pollutants from water. The recent trends are inclined toward functionalization of graphene-based materials to get the advantage of their improved properties. The functionalized graphene materials are efficient due to their enhanced properties resulting from synergistic effects. This article reviews the synthesis and application of graphene-based adsorbents for the removal of organic pollutants from water. A critical account is provided on synthesis methods, applications, adsorption mechanisms, the figure of merits, and removal performances. The accomplishments, limitations, challenges, and future research directions are also highlighted. •Outline of preparation, characterization and properties of graphene-based adsorbents.•Organic pollutants uptake from water using graphene has been reviewed.•Magnetic separation and adsorption mechanism have been discussed.•The outlook for potential applications and limitations was also discussed.