Nanomaterials for Environmental Remediation: Cleaning up Pollutants
Nampiima Prisca J.
Faculty of Engineering Kampala International University Uganda
ABSTRACT
Nanomaterials have revolutionized the field of environmental remediation, offering innovative solutions for the efficient removal of pollutants from air, soil, and water. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of nanomaterials used in pollution remediation, including nanoparticles, nanotubes, and nanocomposites. The unique properties of these materials at the nanoscale, such as their high surface-area-to-volume ratio and enhanced reactivity, make them particularly effective in addressing environmental challenges that traditional methods cannot efficiently resolve. The mechanisms by which nanomaterials interact with pollutants, as well as their applications in the removal of specific contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and pathogenic microorganisms, are thoroughly discussed. The paper also addresses the challenges associated with the use of nanomaterials, including potential toxicity and the difficulty in achieving homogeneous dispersion in environmental matrices. Future directions for research and development in this field are proposed, emphasizing the need for safer, more efficient, and scalable nanotechnologies.
Keywords: Nanomaterials, Environmental remediation, Pollution removal, Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, Nanocomposites.
CITATION: Nampiima Prisca J. Nanomaterials for Environmental Remediation: Cleaning up Pollutants. Research Output Journal of Engineering and Scientific Research, 2024 3(2): 41-44