Synergistic adsorption-transformation-immobilization effects and Electron transfer in graphene-based materials: Functional strategies for efficient chromium and arsenic stabilization

Chromium (Cr) and arsenic (As), highly toxic and persistent global pollutants, seriously threaten ecosystems and human health. Conventional remediation technologies suffer from high energy consumption, low selectivity, and secondary pollution risks. Graphene-based materials, with their unique two-dimensional structure, large specific surface area, and tunable surface chemistry, have emerged as highly promising candidates for Cr and As remediation through multidimensional modification. This review systematically examines the functionalization strategies for graphene-based materials, elucidating how their surface properties function by regulating pollutant capture and valence state transformation. By establishing a synergistic framework of “adsorption-transformation-immobilization”, it clarifies the multi-stage pathways involved, including electrostatic attraction-coordination adsorption, photocatalytic/chemical reduction-driven valence conversion, and ligand exchange-precipitation immobilization. The analysis highlights the central synergistic role of graphene in facilitating electron transfer and providing stable support. Additionally, this review evaluates the performance and stability of the materials under various environmental conditions and analyzes their regeneration potential and long-term prospects for environmental applications. Beyond descriptive analysis, a comparative evaluation of various modification methods is conducted based on performance metrics like adsorption capacity and removal efficiency, alongside feasibility considerations including cost and environmental impact. Finally, critical bottlenecks for practical application are identified, with perspectives on future directions for heavy metal remediation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive reference for the development of high-performance graphene-based stable materials, promote the practical application of efficient and sustainable heavy metal pollution control technologies, and accelerate technological innovation in the field of heavy metal immobilization using modified graphene materials.