Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron Particles for Water Treatment: From Basic Principles to Field-Scale Applications

Abstract

Reductive technologies of groundwater and soil treatment, based on nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles, have been recognized and generally accepted as modern remediation tools for elimination of broad range of both organic and inorganic environmental contaminants, mainly at sites where fast and efficient removal of persistent and emerging organic and inorganic pollutants is needed. In this chapter, we summarize the basic principles and chemical pathways of the nZVI interaction with water and contaminants, recent approaches to nZVI modifications enhancing their reactivity and longevity (including electrostatic and steric stabilization of nZVI, synthesis and applicability of bimetallic particles and nZVI-based nanocomposites, emulsification of nZVI particles, and combination of nZVI with electrokinetics), and present an overview on field-scale applications of nZVI for remediation purposes all over the world. The main aim is to demonstrate the diverse properties of nZVI particles and their possible limitations for water treatment.