Chapter 6

Challenges Surrounding 2D Nanomaterials and Their Application to Photocatalytic Industrial Wastewater Treatment

Anchit Modi

Anchit Modi

Department of Basic Sciences, IITM, IES University, Bhopal, India

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N. K. Gaur

N. K. Gaur

Department of Physics, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India

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First published: 19 April 2024

Summary

Using 2D nanomaterials in photocatalytic industrial wastewater treatment shows great potential for mitigating water pollution. However, significant challenges must be addressed to harness these materials’ capabilities in practical applications effectively. One major challenge lies in the synthesis and scalable production of 2D nanomaterials with the desired properties. It is crucial to develop reliable and cost-effective methods for large-scale production, while ensuring the stability and durability of these materials under harsh operating conditions to maintain their photocatalytic activity over extended periods. Additionally, the efficient immobilization and integration of 2D nanomaterials into photocatalytic systems pose further challenges. Strong adhesion, prevention of aggregation, and enhancement of interfacial contact with the support matrices are necessary to maximize the photocatalytic efficiency of these materials.

Understanding the interactions between pollutants and 2D nanomaterials and developing strategies to mitigate these effects is vital for efficient wastewater treatment. The choice of nanomaterials, combinations, and catalyst loading significantly affects the efficiency of pollutant degradation. Moreover, the photocatalytic treatment of industrial wastewater involves diverse organic and inorganic contaminants, which can interfere with the photocatalytic process. To enable industrial adoption of photocatalytic processes, scalability and cost-effectiveness are key considerations. This entails developing continuous-flow systems, integrating them with the existing wastewater treatment infrastructure, and implementing cost-effective catalyst recovery methods. Another critical aspect is the selection and optimization of suitable catalyst compositions. By addressing these challenges, we can pave the way for successful application of 2D nanomaterials in photocatalytic industrial wastewater treatment, leading to the development of efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment technologies.

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