Carbon composites in the mitigation of micro and nanoplastics

Sumathi C Samiappan; Narayanan Mahesh; Rajesh Pandiyan; Srinivasan Balakumar

doi:10.1515/psr-2023-0048

Article

Carbon composites in the mitigation of micro and nanoplastics

Sumathi C Samiappan , Narayanan Mahesh , Rajesh Pandiyan and Srinivasan Balakumar

Published/Copyright: April 30, 2024

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From the journal Physical Sciences Reviews Volume 9 Issue 11

Abstract

The pervasive issue of micro and nanoplastics (MNPs) in the environment has escalated into a global concern, necessitating the exploration of innovative and efficient removal strategies. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the application of carbon composites in mitigating MNPs, drawing upon a wide array of studies and technological advancements in the field. Carbon composites, known for their high surface area, porosity, and functional ability, offer a promising avenue for the adsorption, degradation, and removal of MNPs from various environmental matrices. We delve into the mechanisms underlying the interaction between carbon composites and MNPs, including physical adsorption, chemical binding, and photocatalytic degradation, highlighting the factors that influence these interactions, such as composite structure, surface chemistry, and environmental conditions. The review further categorizes carbon composites, such as activated carbon, carbon nanotubes, graphene, and biochar-based composites, examining their efficacy, limitations, and potential environmental impacts. A critical analysis of recent field and laboratory studies provides insights into these composites’ practical applications and performance in real-world scenarios. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and future directions for developing carbon composites, including scalability, regeneration, and the sustainable production of these materials. Carbon composites hold significant potential for efficient mitigation of MNPs, offering a viable solution to one of our time’s most pressing environmental challenges. However, further research is needed to optimize these materials for widespread application, enhancing their selectivity, capacity, and durability while minimizing unintended environmental consequences. This review aims to catalyze further investigation and innovation in the field, paving the way for developing more effective and sustainable technologies for mitigating micro and nanoplastics.

Keywords: carbon nanostructures; magnetic nanoparticles; nano-adsorbents; remediation; synthetic polymers

Corresponding author: Srinivasan Balakumar, Department of Chemistry and Biosciences, Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India, E-mail: balakumarmicro@gmail.com

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the editors for their guidance and review of this article before its publication.

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Received: 2023-12-23

Accepted: 2024-04-02

Published Online: 2024-04-30

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https://doi.org/10.1515/psr-2023-0048

Keywords for this article

carbon nanostructures; magnetic nanoparticles; nano-adsorbents; remediation; synthetic polymers