This article reviews the contaminants removal mechanisms of magnetic nanoparticles. The authors conclude that it is possible to apply magnetic nanoparticles sustainably, after detailed consideration of the factors discussed.
In recent years, there has been increasing use of engineered magnetic nanoparticles for remediation and water treatments, with promising performance in pollutant removal or toxicity mitigation. However, there is also elevated public concern.
To this end, it is necessary to enhance the understanding of how these magnetic nanoparticles react with contaminants, and how they interact with the surrounding environment during applications.
This review by researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology provides a holistic overview of current knowledge of magnetic nanoparticles in environmental applications, emphasising studies of zero-valent iron (nZVI), magnetite (Fe3O4), and maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles.
Contaminant removal mechanisms by magnetic nanoparticles are presented, along with factors affecting the ability of contaminant desorption. In addition, factors influencing the recovery of magnetic nanoparticles are outlined, describing the challenges of magnetic particle collection.
The aggregation of magnetic nanoparticles is also described, and methods for enhancing stability are summarised. Furthermore, toxicological effects due to magnetic nanoparticles are discussed.
The authors conclude that it is possible to apply magnetic nanoparticles sustainably, after detailed consideration of these discussed factors.
