Quantum-Catalyst Materials for Wastewater Remediation

Abstract

The advancement of materials science, energy production, chemical synthesis, and environmental remediation are driven by the quantum catalysts. The selectivity and catalytic efficiency of the quantum catalysts are driven by their distinctive properties, i.e., high surface-to-volume ratio and quantum confinement. Numerous quantum catalysts, such as 2D materials and quantum dots, have proven exceptional efficiency in environmental remediation, particularly for wastewater remediation. Numerous organic contaminants, heavy metals, medications, personal care products, and fertilizers can all be broken down and removed from wastewater by the quantum catalysts. The efficient mineralization of these pollutants is facilitated by the capacity of quantum catalysts to generate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS). This chapter highlights the distinct physicochemical characteristics of quantum nanomaterials, which are used for the degradation of wastewater contaminants because of their nanoscale size and tunable electronic structure. The mechanisms and future prospects of quantum catalysts in wastewater are also explained, emphasizing their capacity to effectively and sustainably address the wastewater issues around the globe.