Nanofibrous/biopolymeric membrane a sustainable approach to remove organic micropollutants: A review

Chemosphere. 2023 Feb:314:137663. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137663. Epub 2022 Dec 26.

Abstract

Aquifers are severely polluted with organic and inorganic pollutants, posing a serious threat to the global ecological system's balance. While various traditional methods are available, the development of innovative methods for effluent treatment and reuse is critical. Polymers have recently been widely used in a variety of industry sectors due to their unique properties. Biopolymers are a biodegradable material that is also a viable alternative to synthetic polymers. Biopolymers are preferably obtained from cellulose and carrageenan molecules from various biological sources. While compared with conventional non-biodegradable polymeric materials, the biopolymer possesses unique characteristics such as renewability, cost-effectiveness, biodegradability, and biocompatibility. The improvements towards the biopolymeric (natural) membranes have also been thoroughly discussed. The use of nanofillers to stabilise and improve the effectiveness of biopolymeric membranes in the elimination of organic pollutants is one of the most recent developments. This was discovered that the majority of biopolymeric membranes technology consolidated on organic pollutants. More research should be directed toward against emerging organic/persistent organic pollutants (POP) and micropollutants. Furthermore, processes for regenerating and reusing utilized biopolymer-based carbon - based materials are emphasized.

Keywords: Biodegradable; Biopolymeric membrane; Organic pollutant; Removal; Water treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biopolymers
  • Cellulose
  • Environmental Pollutants*
  • Nanofibers*
  • Polymers

Substances

  • Polymers
  • Cellulose
  • Biopolymers
  • Environmental Pollutants