A review of nanocellulose adsorptive membrane as multifunctional wastewater treatment

Dyes, inorganic and organic solvents, heavy metals and oils represent a substantial danger to water supplies, which is a major global problem. Advanced research and development in the manufacture of green-adsorptive membranes as well as simple operation, high separation efficiency, low energy consumption, eco-friendly and affordable cost have led the way to the development of sophisticated treatments for water remediation. To date, nanocellulose has been extensively investigated as excellent biomaterials in membrane filtration due to their exceptional properties such as large specific surface area, anti-fouling behaviour, high aspect ratio, high thermal resistance, outstanding mechanical properties, biodegradability and biocompatibility. The large surface area of nanocellulose contains a large number of free hydroxyl groups, which are easily modified and functionalized has been discussed. In addition, recent progresses in the application of modified nanocellulose for heavy metal removal, oily water separation and dye extractions are surveyed, since they are potentially useful as adsorbents in the filtration membrane to enhance its performance.