Abstract
The absence of novel and efficient methods for the elimination of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) from the environment is a serious concern in the society. The pollutants release into the atmosphere by means of industrialization and urbanization is a massive global hazard. Although, the eco-toxicity associated with nanotechnology is still being debated, nano-remediation is a potentially developing tool for dealing with contamination of the environment, particularly POPs. Nano-remediation is a novel strategy to the safe and long-term removal of POPs. This detailed review article presents an important perspective on latest innovations and future views of nano-remediation methods used for environmental decontamination, like nano-photocatalysis and nanosensing. Different kinds of nanomaterials including nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), magnetic and metallic nanoparticles, silica (SiO2) nanoparticles, graphene oxide, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have been summarized for the mitigation of POPs. Furthermore, the long-term viability of nano-remediation strategies for dealing with legacy contamination was considered, with a particular emphasis on environmental and health implications. The assessment goes on to discuss the environmental consequences of nanotechnology and offers consensual recommendations on how to employ nanotechnology for a greater present and a more prosperous future.
•Nano-bioremediation aspects of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are given.•Elimination of POPs from the environment is a serious concern and require efforts.•Nano-photocatalysis and nano-sensing of POPs are discussed with examples.•An array of nanomaterials has been summarized for the mitigation of POPs.