Removal of contaminants of emerging concerns and dyes by MXene-based membranes in water: A review

MXenes are being currently studied extensively in various environmental fields, owing to their unique structures and chemical properties. Particularly, using MXenes as coatings on membranes can effectively remove various contaminants from aquatic environments. However, challenges, such as porosity-selectivity trade-offs and membrane swelling, limit the effectiveness of MXene membranes. To address these limitations, ongoing research is applying various techniques, such as the intercalation of different nanomaterials into MXene nanosheets. Although research on MXene-based membranes is actively progressing, reviews addressing emerging concerns regarding the use of antibiotics and pharmaceuticals as contaminants and dye chemicals are lacking. Accordingly, the objective of this review was to provide a comprehensive overview of recent studies on MXene-based membranes, specifically in the context of removing dye chemicals and contaminants of emerging concern. The review indicated that MXene-based membranes are a promising water/wastewater treatment process. Overall, this review could contribute to the development of MXene-based membrane technologies.