MoS(2) and MoS(2) Nanocomposites for Adsorption and Photodegradation of Water Pollutants: A Review

The need for fresh and conveniently treated water has become a major concern in recent years. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS(2)) nanomaterials are attracting attention in various fields, such as energy, hydrogen production, and water decontamination. This review provides an overview of the recent developments in MoS(2)-based nanomaterials for water treatment via adsorption and photodegradation. Primary attention is given to the structure, properties, and major methods for the synthesis and modification of MoS(2), aiming for efficient water-contaminant removal. The combination of MoS(2) with other components results in nanocomposites that can be separated easily or that present enhanced adsorptive and photocatalytic properties. The performance of these materials in the adsorption of heavy metal ions and organic contaminants, such as dyes and drugs, is reviewed. The review also summarizes current progress in the photocatalytic degradation of various water pollutants, using MoS(2)-based nanomaterials under UV-VIS light irradiation. MoS(2)-based materials showed good activity after several reuse cycles and in real water scenarios. Regarding the ecotoxicity of the MoS(2), the number of studies is still limited, and more work is needed to effectively evaluate the risks of using this nanomaterial in water treatment.