The use of functional nanoparticles for water purification

Nanomaterials have been used for the removal of heavy metal ions, organics, and inorganic anions from contaminated water because of their huge surface areas and rapid adsorption kinetics. This chapter reviews typical nanoparticles used for water purification, including their applications in disinfection, anti-fouling membranes, multi-functional adsorbents and electrodes. The rapid progress in nanoscience and nanotechnology is expected to add a significant contribution in controlling water-borne diseases and chemical threats to public health. To take advantage of the promising properties of nanomaterials and use them in water treatment, scale-up synthesis of advanced nanoparticles and their engineering into functional products need tremendous inputs from various sectors including industries. Various techniques have been developed for advanced treatment of drinking water, generally including disinfection, adsorption, membrane technology, and electrochemistry. Despite their advantages, toxic byproducts can be generated during the disinfection process when using chlorine, chloramines, chlorine dioxide and ozone as disinfectants.