Understanding the sorbent properties of layered double hydroxide for the removal of pharmaceuticals from aqueous Solutions: A comprehensive review

Abstract

The major challenge resulting from the formation of pharmaceuticals and their by-products in water leads to negative impacts on both human health and aquatic ecosystems. To solve this problem, layered double hydroxides (LDH) have been explored by many researchers to remove pharmaceutical contaminants. This review highlights recent advancements in the structural modification and functionalization of LDH to enhance their effectiveness. It also discusses how these molecular engineering techniques have been applied to improve the adsorption and removal of pharmaceutical contaminants from aqueous solutions. Through doping, surface functionalization, and composite formation, the synthesis of LDH with improved properties is explored. Furthermore, the kinetic and mechanism aspects of adsorption are analyzed in relation to pH, temperature, and ionic strength. The insights gained from these studies can contribute to the development of multifunctional LDH materials for the efficient removal of pharmaceutical contaminants, thereby mitigating their harmful effects on water bodies and ecosystems.

Keywords

• Adsorption
• Layered Double Hydroxides
• Characterization
• Synthesis methods
• Pharmaceuticals