Novel 2D MXenes biocomposite for the removal of emerging organic contaminants from wastewater

Growing ecological and public health issues brought on by the increasing presence of novel organic contaminants in wastewater need the development of innovative remediation solutions. It’s usually challenging for conventional treatment methods to effectively collect these contaminants, which include pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial chemicals. Scientists are, therefore, concentrating on innovative material to increase the efficiency of adsorption and removal. Because they facilitate interaction with a range of organic pollutants, 2D MXenes’ unique structural and chemical properties have drawn interest from these materials. MXenes are very excellent adsorbents for a variety of contaminants because of their large surface area, many terminal groups, and distinctive 2D layer architectures. Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), dyes, antibiotics (tetracycline, sulfonamides, and ciprofloxacin), amitriptyline, verapamil, carbamazepine, 17α-ethinyl estradiol, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), diclofenac, ibuprofen heavy metals, and other contaminants have all been claimed to be eliminated by MXenes. Recent studies propose the formulation of MXene-based biocomposites, which not only harness the high surface area and electrical conductivity of MXenes but also integrate biodegradable components to promote eco-friendliness. This work explores the potential of novel 2D MXenes biocomposites in addressing the critical challenge of wastewater treatment, focussing on their efficiency, and sustainability in removing emerging contaminants.