Novel Materials for the Removal of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Drinking Water Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

The widespread contamination of drinking water systems by microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) presents a significant threat to public health. However, traditional treatment methods often underperform, with removal efficiencies as low as 48.4%. This review systematically explores recent advances in innovative materials designed for MPs and NPs removal in drinking water. Four main categories of materials are critically assessed: (1) renewable biomass-based adsorbents, (2) advanced membrane separation techniques, (3) solar-powered photothermal and photocatalytic systems, and (4) state-of-the-art electrochemical technologies. For each category, we analyze their primary removal mechanisms, material properties, reported effectiveness, and lifecycle considerations. A detailed comparison emphasizes the trade-offs among removal efficiency (from 37% to over 99%), energy consumption (from nearly zero in solar-driven systems to over 4 kWh/m³ in reverse osmosis), costs, and technological maturity (TRL 2-9). We also discuss major challenges to practical application, such as scaling issues, long-term stability in complex water environments containing natural organic matter (NOM) and ions, and secondary waste disposal. The review demonstrates that no single technology provides a complete solution, but future progress depends on developing multifunctional hybrid systems and effectively integrating these new technologies into existing treatment frameworks. A coordinated, multidisciplinary effort focused on material durability, cost-effectiveness, and comprehensive lifecycle analysis is essential to convert laboratory innovations into large-scale, effective solutions to safeguard global drinking water quality.