Nanotechnology applications in water purification and waste water treatment: A review

New concepts and technologies are fast replacing the traditional methods of water distribution, supply and purification. Nanomaterials are well suited for water purification, disinfection and wastewater treatment applications as they have as large specific surface area, high reactivity, high degree of functionalization, size dependent properties, affinity for specific target contaminants, etc. Membranes and filters synthesized using nanomaterials have selective permeability, good flux rates, increased durability, reliability in purification and reusability, and thus are energy saving and cost effective. Various types of nanomaterials such as antimicrobial nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes (CINTs), nanosorbents, dendrimers, self-assembled monolayers on mesoporous silica (SAMMS), single enzyme nanoparticles (SENs), their mechanisms, synthesis and applications are reviewed in this paper. Also, some key issues and challenges are addressed.