A Comprehensive Review on Application of Different Bioadsorbents and their Nanocomposites as Adsorbents for Heavy Metal Removal from Industrial Wastewaters

IJEP 46(10): 995-1007 : Vol. 46 Issue 10 (October 2026)

Full Text

Rahul Hinge and R. W. Gaikwad*

MGM University, Jawaharlal Nehru Engineering College, Department of Chemical Engineering, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar – 431 003, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Clean water is essential for human survival and civilizations would collapse without it. Industrialization, climate change and pollution pose growing threats to clean water supplies, especially in emerging and developing countries. This review paper examines the critical threats to water quality posed by pollution, climate change and rapid industrialization. It addresses the urgent need to safely filter water sources contaminated with harmful heavy metals to protect people and the environment. The paper evaluates the limitations of existing methods and approaches and discusses how biowaste adsorbents might offer a sustainable way to purify water contaminated with heavy metals. In addition, it stresses that when evaluating the appropriateness of such alternatives, factors such as adsorption capacity, environmental impact and cost-effectiveness are crucial. To better understand how bio-adsorbents made from microorganisms, agricultural waste and animal products work to remove heavy metals, this review delves into their synthesis, adsorption mechanisms, characteristics and efficacy. Furthermore, it contributes to the ongoing pursuit of comprehensive water remediation solutions by addressing regeneration methods and how to integrate bioadsorbents into current wastewater treatment systems. To foster future research and practical applications that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and potential solutions in heavy metal water remediation.

Keywords

Industrial wastewaters, Bioadsorbents, Nanocom-posites, Heavy metal removal, Circular economy

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