Three-dimensional carbon-based architectures for oil remediation: from synthesis and modification to functionalization

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) carbon-based architectures with their macroscopic monolithic shapes, well-defined interconnected porous networks, large surface areas and excellent adsorption capacities have received extensive attention in the field of environmental remediation. Given the frequent occurrence of oil spills, the demand for 3D carbon materials for oil remediation has increased very rapidly in recent years; however, considerable synthesis and functionalization studies remain to be performed to fully exploit their applications. This review aims to give an overview of the synthesis, modification and functionalization of 3D carbon-based architectures for oil remediation. In particular, we highlight novel monolithic materials with multifunctions such as photocatalytic activity, which can not only play a role as adsorbents but can also photocatalytically degradate oil.