A Critical Review on 2D Nanomaterials for Microplastic Remediation From Water: Current Progress and Challenges

ABSTRACT The improper disposal and overconsumption of plastics have led to widespread and persistent presence of microplastics in water, posing a serious threat to aquatic ecosystem and human health. Therefore, various materials and methods have been explored, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable and efficient remediation of microplastics from water. In recent years, two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have emerged as a solution for microplastic remediation over conventional materials owing to their unique properties, remarkable efficiency, chemical stability, and scalability. This review comprehensively summarizes the global occurrence of microplastics, along with their sources, pathways, and its fate. Progress in the development of various 2D nanomaterials, including MXenes, carbon based 2D materials, transition metal dichalcogenides, and 2D metal oxides, based techniques for the removal of microplastics from water are discussed in detail. Subsequently, a comparative performance of removal methods, such as adsorption, photocatalysis, and membrane filtration, is summarized with emphasis on their underlying mechanisms. In addition, the key challenges, future prospects, and scalability associated with 2D nanomaterials for industrial scale applications for microplastic removal are outlined. Overall, 2D nanomaterials exhibit a significant potential for effective microplastic remediation, thereby fostering future sustainable development goals.