A critical review on the prospective role of nanomaterials in the effectual removal of radionuclides from wastewater – State of the art and future challenges

Numerous sectors such as nuclear reactors, nuclear power plants (NPPs), nuclear research facilities, as well as commercial, industrial, and agricultural domains contribute to the production of radioactive waste. Specifically, the nuclear industry yields substantial quantities of radioactive wastewater, necessitating efficient treatment processes prior to its release into the environment. The ongoing apprehension regarding the safety of nuclear power underscores the persistent challenges in effectively managing and cleaning up radioactive waste. Despite significant advancements in research and development over recent decades, the efficient removal and recovery of radionuclides remain formidable tasks. Conventional water purification techniques, commonly employed for wastewater treatment, often prove inadequate for eliminating radioisotopes. Moreover, they tend to lack cost-effectiveness and environmental compatibility. Nanotechnology emerges as a promising avenue for addressing the challenges associated with radioactive waste management. Nano-engineered materials exhibit distinctive traits like remarkable adsorption capacity, extensive specific surface area, excellent biocompatibility etc., making them highly valuable for water purification efforts. The purification of radioactive wastes from industrial wastewater involves the use of various materials, including zeolites, activated carbon, ion exchange resins, silica gel, and natural clay minerals. These materials are selected for their high adsorption capacities and abilities to effectively remove radionuclides from contaminated water. Among the most common and dangerous radionuclides are Cesium-137, Cobalt-60, Strontium-90, and Plutonium-239, which pose significant environmental and health risks due to their high radioactivity and long half-lives. This review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the present state and anticipated advancements in nanomaterials for forthcoming water purification systems, specifically focusing on their capacity to extract radionuclides from wastewater. Furthermore, it delves into the opportunities and obstacles inherent in the development and deployment of innovative wastewater treatment methodologies, shedding light on existing knowledge gaps within this domain.