Role of nanomaterials in advanced membrane technologies for groundwater purification

Abstract

Access to clean and potable groundwater is paramount for sustaining human health and ecological balance. Traditional groundwater purification techniques often fall short in addressing emerging contaminants and increasing water scarcity challenges. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), around 2 billion individuals worldwide rely on a drinking water source that is contaminated with faeces. In India, approximately 163 million individuals do not have access to potable water, rendering it a notable concern. Advanced membrane technologies have emerged as promising solutions for groundwater purification due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability. In recent years, the incorporation of nanomaterials such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, metal nanoparticles, and nanocomposites into membrane structures has revolutionized the field of groundwater purification. These nanomaterials offer unique properties, including a high surface area, tuneable surface chemistry, and exceptional mechanical strength, which significantly enhance membrane separation processes. Their application has resulted in improved removal efficiencies for various contaminants, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and microorganisms. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in membrane-based groundwater purification, with a specific focus on the integration of nanomaterials to enhance membrane performance. It explores the key mechanisms by which nanomaterial-enhanced membranes enhance groundwater purification, including increased adsorption capacity, reduced fouling, and improved selectivity. Moreover, the environmental sustainability of these advanced membranes is discussed, highlighting their potential to reduce energy consumption and chemical usage compared to conventional purification methods. Additionally, this review sheds light on the challenges and prospects associated with implementing nanomaterial-enhanced membranes at a larger scale, considering factors such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. It also emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research collaborations among materials scientists, engineers, and environmental experts to address these challenges effectively.