Photocatalytic Potential of Sandwich like Magnetic NPs/MXenes Nanohybrids for Abatement of Wastewater Contaminants

Abstract

Escalating water contamination and scarcity concerns have fueled the drive for efficient waste remediation technologies. Conventional approaches, though effective, still come with limitations such as low efficacy, high costs, and generation of secondary contaminants. Various novel nanomaterials such as MXenes, (2D materials with the general formula of Mn+1Xn, M being an early transition metal, and X being carbon or nitrogen) and magnetic nanoparticles have emerged as promising candidates to combat these issues. Among them, magnetic NPs/MXenes nanohybrids stand out for their enhanced features and prospective applications in photocatalytic contaminant removal from industrial wastewater. This is attributed to their adeptness in addressing the intrinsic constraints of MXenes encompassing challenges like aggregation, toxicity, limited recyclability, and high costs. By utilizing the synergistic effects of magnetic nanoparticles and MXenes, these nanohybrids demonstrate improved conductivity, a wide surface area, and greater light absorption, contributing to efficient pollutant degradation. These materials generally have an impressive degradation efficiency exceeding 90% against textile dyes and various pollutants, showcasing remarkable reusability over multiple cycles (> 3X). Various magnetic NPs/MXenes nanohybrids, including those based on iron, cobalt, nickel, ferrites, and perovskites, are thoroughly discussed in this paper, along with their efficacy in degrading pollutants. This paper is mainly focused on fulfilling the knowledge gap on NPs/MXenes in terms of synthesis, unique features, and photocatalytic potential. This review accentuates the potential of magnetic NPs/MXenes nanohybrids as a novel approach in the realm of water remediation by compiling the existing knowledge. Besides, this work suggests future research should be focused on the diversification of composite components and expansion of these photocatalysts for degradation of a wide variety of contaminants, including organic vapors in the air.