Graphene and Graphene-Based Composites: A Rising Star in Water Purification - A Comprehensive Overview

摘要

Graphene is an interesting two-dimensional carbon sheet pos- sessing single-layered atom thickness that confers unique phys- ical and chemical properties. The pristine graphene sheets have some limited applications in water purification, but the mod- ification of graphene into the graphene composite by the in- corporation of some functional groups or nanoparticles on the surface extensively increases its environmental applications. Re- cently, graphene nanocomposites have found to show very promising applications in all types of water purification. The present review highlights the recent developments in the ap- plications of graphene and graphene-based composites as ad- sorbent, catalyst, photocatalyst, electrocatalyst, photo- electrocatalyst, and disinfection and desalination agent in comprehensive water purification systems. We primarily focus on the environmental engineering applications of graphene nanocomposites as sorbent materials for the elimination of tox- ic inorganic (cationic and anionic), organic, and mixed/multiple pollutants, and as catalysts for the degradation of toxic organic contaminants using catalytic oxidation, photocatalytic oxida- tion, electrocatalytic oxidation, and photoelectrocatalytic oxida- tion. We have also discussed the use and feasibility of gra- phene nanocomposites in water disinfection and desalination. Finally, the future challenges and perspectives are discussed.