Graphene-based nanocomposites for emerging pollutants

Graphene, graphene oxide (GO), and their nanocomposites have been prominently utilized for water and/or wastewater purification due to abilities of superior oxidation, adsorption, and catalytic properties. Graphene and GO-based nanocomposites certainly have considerably high conductivity, pore volume, vast surface chemistry, and an outstandingly large aspect ratio that allows them a favorable and effective material for catalysis and adsorption of various organic pollutants and other inorganic toxic wastes from wastewater. Comparatively, GO-based nanocomposites have been demonstrated as a potential adsorbent for eradicating organic contaminants, heavy metals, dyes, and industrial contaminants and other hazardous pollutants from water and environment. Fabrication and surface functionalization of graphene and GO-based nanocomposites have demonstrated that they can be efficiently applied in enzyme immobilization. In addition, doping and co-doping of GO with wide range of heterogeneous semiconductor-mediated metal oxides have been introduced and investigated for enhancing its efficiency. Researchers have showed more interest in the exploration of various potential applications of graphene and GO-based nanocomposites in removal of emerging pollutants with more efficiency and reduced synthesis concerns. Thus, in this chapter we have summarized the facts involved with the significance, synthesis process, and wide range application of graphene and GO-based nanocomposites in removal of emerging pollutants.