Inspired by the true story behind Erin Brockovich film, CNR-ISOF Director Dr. Manuela Melucci discusses the growing challenge of emerging water contaminants and the advanced materials being developed to remove them. More than twenty years later, water pollution has become even more complex, while many conventional contaminants are effectively managed through regulations and established treatment technologies, scientists are increasingly focusing on a new generation of substances known as emerging contaminants.
“Water quality is continuously shaped by environmental pressures and human activities,” explains Dr. M. Melucci, “Many compounds used in domestic, industrial and agricultural applications eventually reach aquatic environments. Some of these substances are only recently regulated, or not yet regulated, and may pose significant risks to ecosystems and human health.”
Emerging contaminants encompass a highly diverse range of chemicals, often present at trace concentrations but characterised by high persistence, mobility and potential toxicity. Their ability to move across water, soil and air makes their detection and removal particularly challenging. Among the best-known examples are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used for their water- and oil-repellent properties.
Addressing these pollutants requires increasingly sophisticated technologies. Current treatment methods include adsorption using activated carbon, membrane filtration and reverse osmosis. At the same time, researchers are developing advanced materials capable of selectively capturing contaminants at the molecular level.
“At CNR-ISOF, we have been investigating systems based on macromolecular materials enriched with graphene oxide,” says Dr. M. Melucci. “These materials combine physical filtration with molecular interactions that enhance pollutant removal. Similar adsorption mechanisms are exploited by activated carbon, although through different chemical pathways.”
The research also explores the potential of nanomaterials such as graphene and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to improve membrane performance, opening new perspectives for more efficient and sustainable water treatment technologies. Developing sustainable adsorbent materials, selective molecular recognition platforms and next-generation filtration systems will play a crucial role in protecting one of the planet’s most valuable resources.
Here for the full article:
https://almanacco.cnr.it/articolo/16283/l-esiziale-e-invisibile-agli-occhi