From Lab to Tap: 2D Material Innovations in Detection and Elimination of Waterborne Pathogens

Abstract

Clean water is essential for life, yet contamination by pathogens and chemical pollutants continues to threaten both public health and the environment. To tackle this challenge, researchers are turning to advanced technologies that can both detect and remove waterborne pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Among these, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, including graphene-based and phosphorus-based materials, transition metal dichalcogenides (i.e. graphene oxide, phosphorene, molybdenum disulphide respectively), MXenes, 2D metal oxides etc. have shown remarkable potential. Their unique features, including large surface area, adaptable electronic properties, and strong mechanical and chemical stability, make them highly effective for water treatment. This review explores how these materials are being used to sense and eliminate contaminants, explaining the underlying mechanisms of how they interact with pathogens and evaluating different treatment strategies. Furthermore, various challenges associated with scalability, selectivity, and environmental compatibility of these approaches in detection and elimination of waterborne pathogen have been discussed using 2D nanomaterials. Finally, we highlight key gaps and future directions, aiming to guide the development of next-generation 2D nanomaterial-based technologies for safe and sustainable water purification.