Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Sensing of Heavy Metals in Wastewater Streams

Heavy metals are considered one of the many challenges facing the wastewater treatment industry. One of the main technologies required to face such a challenge is the fast, cost-effective, selective, and sensitive detection of such heavy metals. Recently, functionalized nanomaterials have emerged as promising electrode materials for the reliable electrochemical sensing of heavy metals in wastewater effluents. This chapter will focus on reviewing the recent reports related to the electrochemical detection of heavy metals using cost-effective nonprecious metal-based nanomaterials. Such nanomaterials include metals, metal oxides, layered double hydroxides, and carbonaceous, polymeric, and metal-organic frameworks. Moreover, special focus is provided for studies related to the disposable and portable applications of electrochemical methods. Numerous types of nanomaterials can be identified as promising candidates for the electrochemical detection of heavy metals below the limit required by the World Health Organization.