Harnessing magnetically separable iron based adsorbents for enhanced uranium adsorption

Energy and environmental concerns have historically had an impact on the growth of civilization. In the last several decades, nuclear power has advanced rapidly since clean energy has proven to be convenient for storage. However, with an upsurge in nuclear power plants and the by-products they produce, noxious radioactive elements like uranium, which are harmful chemically and radiologically, have posed an imminent threat to aquatic and terrestrial life. Numerous approaches have been developed to deal with the shortcomings to maneuver these adversities. Among them, adsorption has been acknowledged as a simple, successful, and economically viable innovation that has received significant attention in recent years despite several limitations in terms of practical uses. In light of considerable investigations by several research organizations, medicine, catalysts, magnetic resonance imaging, and wastewater remediation represent merely some of the disciplines where iron-based adsorbents have garnered enormous curiosity. The application of these adsorbents to mitigate environmental pollutants has been steadily growing due to their superparamagnetism, low manufacturing expense, simplicity in modification, and biocompatibility. With the intent to objectively assess the potential for uranium removal in an ecologically safe manner, this review comprehensively explores various iron-based adsorbents (Fe-NAs), including inorganic, organic, metal–organic framework, and carbon-based materials. Furthermore, the article thoroughly investigates the synthesis processes and ways to enhance the surfaces of these adsorbents as well as delving into their fascinating physicochemical characteristics and adsorption mechanism. Finally, research prerequisites and prospective applications for future advancement have been highlighted. This review aims to furnish information that not only serves as a valuable reference but also ignites the spark of knowledge for researchers and professionals dedicated to this field.