Molecules (Apr 2023)

Preparation of Nanocellulose-Based Aerogel and Its Research Progress in Wastewater Treatment

  • Jiaxin Zhao,
  • Xushuo Yuan,
  • Xiaoxiao Wu,
  • Li Liu,
  • Haiyang Guo,
  • Kaimeng Xu,
  • Lianpeng Zhang,
  • Guanben Du

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28083541
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 28, no. 8
p. 3541

Abstract

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Nowadays, the fast expansion of the economy and industry results in a considerable volume of wastewater being released, severely affecting water quality and the environment. It has a significant influence on the biological environment, both terrestrial and aquatic plant and animal life, and human health. Therefore, wastewater treatment is a global issue of great concern. Nanocellulose’s hydrophilicity, easy surface modification, rich functional groups, and biocompatibility make it a candidate material for the preparation of aerogels. The third generation of aerogel is a nanocellulose-based aerogel. It has unique advantages such as a high specific surface area, a three-dimensional structure, is biodegradable, has a low density, has high porosity, and is renewable. It has the opportunity to replace traditional adsorbents (activated carbon, activated zeolite, etc.). This paper reviews the fabrication of nanocellulose-based aerogels. The preparation process is divided into four main steps: the preparation of nanocellulose, gelation of nanocellulose, solvent replacement of nanocellulose wet gel, and drying of nanocellulose wet aerogel. Furthermore, the research progress of the application of nanocellulose-based aerogels in the adsorption of dyes, heavy metal ions, antibiotics, organic solvents, and oil-water separation is reviewed. Finally, the development prospects and future challenges of nanocellulose-based aerogels are discussed.

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