MXene-based materials for removal of antibiotics and heavy metals from wastewater– a review

As a novel family of 2D materials, MXenes provide an extensive variety of applications in water and effluent treatment due to their distinctive properties and attractive applicability, including superior electrical conductivity, higher thermal stability, hydrophilicity, and high sorption-reduction capacity. Their excellent sorption selectivity makes them perfect for removing hazardous contaminants. Currently, MXene-based materials are regarded as one of the most important topics in membrane separation processes. This work presents a comprehensive review of recent developments in MXene-based water treatment materials. The applications of MXene-based membranes, adsorbents, and photo-catalysts in removing antibiotics and heavy metals from water are discussed. A comparison of MXene-based membranes with other 2D membranes is outlined. Finally, prospects and challenges for future research are discussed.