Novel Materials for the Removal of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Drinking Water Treatment: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
The widespread contamination of drinking water systems by microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) presents a significant threat to public health. However, traditional treatment methods often underperform, with removal efficiencies as low as 48.4%. This review systematically explores recent advances in innovative materials designed for MPs and NPs removal in drinking water. Four main categories of materials are critically assessed: (1) renewable biomass‐based adsorbents, (2) advanced membrane separation techniques, (3) solar‐powered photothermal and photocatalytic systems, and (4) state‐of‐the‐art electrochemical technologies. For each category, we analyze their primary removal mechanisms, material properties, reported effectiveness, and lifecycle considerations. A detailed comparison emphasizes the trade‐offs among removal efficiency (from 37% to over 99%), energy consumption (from nearly zero in solar‐driven systems to over 4 kWh/m3 in reverse osmosis), costs, and technological maturity (TRL 2–9). We also discuss major challenges to practical application, such as scaling issues, long‐term stability in complex water environments containing natural organic matter (NOM) and ions, and secondary waste disposal. The review demonstrates that no single technology provides a complete solution, but future progress depends on developing multifunctional hybrid systems and effectively integrating these new technologies into existing treatment frameworks. A coordinated,…
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