Application of zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) on the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater: A review.

Abstract

The remediation of contaminated soil and water is a relevant topic, being the focus of intense research. The use of nanoparticles to degrade contaminants has been consolidated as a sustainable remediation technology, with promising results worldwide. In this scenario, the zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) which, due to their properties, prove to be an important element to be used in remediation techniques, in addition to being efficient and low cost. In this article the objective is to present a bibliographic review on nanotechnology applied to soil and groundwater remediation, especially the application of nZVI, considering its main characteristics, reactivity performance, pollutants that can be degraded, application and transport techniques and main advantages and disadvantages. Issues related to toxicity and factors related to in situ applications are also presented. It is considered the results that have been observed, there is feasibility for the research to intensify even more, due to the efficiency of this nanomaterial on pollutants present in soils and waters, and it is important to expand the studies in Brazilian soils, since most of the research is international, and it is not possible to directly transfer knowledge acquired from temperate soils to residual soils of tropical and subtropical climate.