Recent progress on Fe-based nanoparticles: synthesis, properties, characterization and environmental applications

Fe-based nanoparticles act as new generation environmental remediation technologies, and provide cost-effective solutions to the most demanding environmental cleanup problems. Because of substantial surface area and elevated surface reactivity, Fe-based nanoparticles provide immense flexibility for in-situ applications. In recent years, zerovalent nano iron (ZVNI) and other surface modified ZVNI particles have promised the effective transformation of a wide range of common environmental toxins including chlorinated compounds, organochlorine pesticides, pharmaceuticals, polychlorinated biphenyls and other organic compounds. Surface modification of iron nanoparticles further enhances the speed and efficiency of remediation. This review encapsulated the recent reports in the remediation of environmental pollutants using various Fe-based nanoparticles. The preparation methods, characteristic properties and latest environmental applications of various Fe-based nanoparticles have been discussed in detail. Additionally, the risk assessment of different Fe-based nanoparticles and concluding remarks were described in detail followed by future perspectives to improve the efficiency of Fe-based nanoparticles towards environmental sustainability