Progress in modifications of 3D graphene-based adsorbents for environmental applications

Abstract

3D graphene-based materials are promising adsorbents for environmental applications. Furthermore, increasing attention has been paid to the improvement of 3D graphene adsorbents for removing pollutants. In this article, the progress in the modification of 3D graphene materials and their performance for removing pollutants were reviewed. The modification strategies, which were classified as (1) the activation with CO₂ (steam and other oxidants) and (2) the surface functionalization with polymers (metals, and metal oxides), were evaluated. The performances of modified 3D graphene materials were assessed for the removal of waste gases (such as CO₂), refractory organics, and heavy metals. The challenges and future research directions were discussed for the environmental applications of 3D graphene materials.

Keywords: 3D graphene; Activation; Adsorption; Surface functionalization.