Cellulose-based adsorbent materials for water remediation: Harnessing their potential in heavy metals and dyes removal

Dyes and heavy metals pose significant threats to both human health and the environment as key pollutants. While various methods exist for treating contaminated water, these approaches are often costly, energy-intensive, and produce hazardous waste that requires careful disposal. Consequently, there is a pressing need for cost-effective, highly efficient, and environmentally friendly processes for wastewater treatment. The adsorption method, specifically utilizing non-toxic and biodegradable materials such as cellulose-based substances, has gained attention as a clean, sustainable, and effective approach for water purification. Cellulose possesses hydroxyl groups that facilitate the binding of chemical species, thereby enhancing contaminant adsorption. This review explores the application of cellulose and modified cellulosic materials in water purification, highlighting their exceptional capacity for adsorbing heavy metals and dyes. Cellulose and its derivatives show great promise as materials for water purification, and this review elucidates their reusability, challenges, and future prospects.