Review on Nanotechnology Applications in Removing Chemical Pollutants and their Application in Health

Abstract

The current review deals with the applications of nanotechnology in removing chemical pollutants and their impact on health as nano-treatment is the use of nanoparticles for the purpose of environmental reform. It is explored to treat groundwater, wastewater, soil, sediment or other environmental pollutants. Nano-processing is an emerging industry. By 2009, nano-processing techniques were documented at least 44 cleanup sites worldwide, mostly in the United States. In Europe, nano-processing is being investigated by the Nanorem project funded by the European Commission. A report by the Nanorem consortium identified nearly 70 nano-processing technology projects worldwide at either a pilot or full scale. During the nano-processing process, the nanoparticle agent must be in contact with the target pollutant under conditions that allow to eliminate toxins or to prevent a reaction. This process usually includes pumping and treatment or topical application. Some nano-remediation methods, in particular the use of zero-valent iron nanoparticles to clean groundwater have been deployed at large-scale clean-up sites. Other methods are still in the research stages.