Literature Review and Qualitative Analysis of Nanomaterial Research Trends in Environmental Applications (2015–2025)

Kinley Dorji; Sahar Yazdani; Ali Akbar

Authors

Kinley Dorji College of Science and Technology, Royal University of Bhutan, Rinchending Author
Sahar Yazdani Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran Author
Ali Akbar University of Science and Technology, Tehran Author

Keywords:

Environmental Applications, Literature Review, Nanomaterials

Abstract

Over the past decade (2015–2025), research on nanomaterials for environmental applications has accelerated, spanning water and wastewater treatment, air pollution mitigation, soil remediation, sensing and monitoring, and circular economy approaches; this paper provides a structured literature review combined with a qualitative analysis of publication trends, dominant technologies, translational challenges, and research gaps. We synthesized peer-reviewed reviews, meta-analyses, and recent empirical studies (2020–2025) to identify dominant material classes (carbon-based materials, metal/metal-oxide nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and photocatalysts), prevalent mechanisms (adsorption, catalysis, membrane augmentation, and sensing transduction), and evolving priorities such as green/biogenic synthesis, life-cycle impacts, and governance of engineered nanomaterials. The analysis highlights a growing emphasis on scalable, low-cost water-treatment solutions, nano-enabled sensors for environmental monitoring, and hybrid materials that combine high reactivity with stability; concurrently, concerns about environmental fate, ecotoxicity, predictable exposure, and end-of-life management have prompted methodological refinement in exposure modeling and standardized testing. We conclude with a qualitative roadmap recommending integrated techno-ecological assessments, standardized exposure frameworks, upscaling pathways, and stronger transdisciplinary collaborations to translate laboratory innovations into safe, equitable environmental technologies.

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