CHAPTER 6: Adsorption and Desorption on Nanostructured Materials

Release of toxic pollutants from industries, whether in the form of liquids or gases, has adversely affected the quality of the environment. To remediate the environment from such pollutants, a large number of conventional methods and advanced technologies have been developed and adopted. Amongst these innumerable methods, adsorption has emerged as one of the most significant processes to remove pollutants of a diverse nature. The present work is based on the ability of nanostructured materials as adsorbents for various gaseous and liquid pollutants. The mechanism of adsorption and desorption is elaborated along with factors that are responsible for the occurrence of such processes. The role of nano-sized carbonaceous, metallic, magnetic, metal oxides, clays, silicon and polymer-based materials, is highlighted as advanced nanosorbents to eradicate pollutants such as noxious gases, organic/inorganic chemicals, dyes, heavy metals, etc. released in the environment as a result of anthropogenic activities.