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In this research, a solvothermal approach is introduced to synthesize a metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) nanocomposite (GO/UiO-66-NDC) for the removal of Cr(VI) from water. A comprehensive analysis was performed to understand the physical, chemical, and structural properties of the MOF nanocomposite. The adsorption behavior of Cr(VI) was investigated by changing various parameters, such as pH, dosage, and concentration, to determine isotherms, thermodynamics, and kinetics. The results showed that the nanocomposite had a high tolerance to pH and thermal stability, with a high adsorption capacity of 157.23 mg g−1 for Cr(VI) at pH 3 due to the presence of zirconium oxide clusters. The density functional theory simulations showed that the nanocomposite had ten times more dynamic delocalized surface states, which enhanced the adsorption capacity and agreed with the experimental results. Furthermore, the nanocomposite exhibited better regeneration performance compared to previously reported materials, making it a promising super-adsorbent for removing Cr(VI) from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) presence in different environments is attributed to anthropogenic, biogenic and geogenic activities, and it exhibits different toxicity levels depending on its oxidative state and presence in the environment. It also affects water health by changing its alkalinity, oxidation–reduction potential and may also react with other toxic metals and become more toxic in combination with them. As contamination has become a worldwide concern due to adverse effects on health like cardiovascular as well as haematological effects, neurological effects and skin lesions. Due to severe health issues, the development of As removal technologies has become of utmost importance. This review intends to provide information about the source and impact of As on the environment, contamination status of arsenic in different sources and the effect of other heavy metals. We evaluated various effects and consequences of As on soil fertility, plants, photosynthetic pigments, nitrogen metabolism, antioxidants system and biologically active compounds. The impactful use of sustainable monitoring and removal solutions could be an essential and economical way to address the problems of As toxicity in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyethylene terephthalate is a common plastic in many products such as viscose rayon for clothing, and packaging material in the food and beverage industries. Polyethylene terephthalate has beneficial properties such as light weight, high tensile strength, transparency and gas barrier. Nonetheless, there is actually increasing concern about plastic pollution and toxicity. Here we review the properties, occurrence, toxicity, remediation and analysis of polyethylene terephthalate as macroplastic, mesoplastic, microplastic and nanoplastic. Polyethylene terephthalate occurs in groundwater, drinking water, soils and sediments. Plastic uptake by humans induces diseases such as reducing migration and proliferation of human mesenchymal stem cells of bone marrow and endothelial progenitor cells. Polyethylene terephthalate can be degraded by physical, chemical and biological methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]