Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for the Removal of Emerging Contaminants from Water: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Emerging contaminants (ECs), such as pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, and microplastics, pose significant threats to water quality, with conventional treatment methods often achieving only 70–80% removal efficiency. This study aims to compare nanotechnology-based solutions with traditional methods, evaluating their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact. Various nanomaterials—including metal oxide nanoparticles (e.g., TiO₂, Fe₃O₄), carbon-based nanomaterials, polymeric nanomaterials, and bio-nanocomposites—were assessed for their adsorption capacities, photocatalytic degradation rates, and filtration efficiencies. Experimental results showed that metal oxide nanoparticles achieved up to 98% contaminant removal via photocatalysis, while carbon-based nanomaterials exhibited 90–95% adsorption efficiency. Despite higher initial costs, nanotechnology-based methods demonstrated superior long-term performance and sustainability. However, challenges such as nanoparticle toxicity and environmental persistence remain critical concerns. This study highlights the potential of nanotechnology to revolutionise water purification and emphasises the need for further research into eco-friendly, scalable, and cost-effective solutions for sustainable water treatment.