Advances in electrospun materials for the adsorption and separation of environmental pollutants: A comprehensive review

Environ Res. 2023 Nov 1;236(Pt 2):116783. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116783. Epub 2023 Jul 28.

Abstract

Despite a broad range of new techniques developed, adsorption methods remain one of the technologies of choice for the removal of contaminants. However, significant progress has also been made in these, which finds reflection in a new spectrum of adsorbents that can be used. This comprehensive review discusses properties, advantages, and perspectives on the use of custom-made electrospun adsorbents in the processes of heavy metals, agrochemicals, and microplastic contaminants removal from the environment. It presents the versatility and adaptability of materials that can be used as electrospun fibers matrix, also considering the mechanism and parameters of the sorption process carried out with them. The presented review proves, that due to the use of new, custom-made sorbents, such as electrospun materials, the adsorption processes still possess great application potential and development opportunities to provide an attractive and effective alternative to other remediation techniques.

Keywords: Adsorption; Agrochemicals; Electrospun materials; Heavy metals; Microplastics.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Environmental Pollutants*
  • Metals, Heavy* / chemistry
  • Plastics
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical* / analysis

Substances

  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Plastics
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical
  • Metals, Heavy