Metal Organic Framework for PAH Degradation

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are organic pollutants that are typically colourless, white, or light-yellow solid compounds. They are made up of two or more fused aromatic rings containing carbon and hydrogen atoms that are widely used organic compounds. These compounds are quickly absorbed by organisms and participate in bioaccumulation due to their high lipo-solubility and recalcitrance. PAHs are the largest class of carcinogens, and various studies have confirmed their genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and teratogenicity. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry listed PAHs as the ninth most dangerous chemical substance to human health in 2015. To solve the problem of PAH pollution, various physical, chemical, and biological techniques are used. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are the widely used material for the removal of PAHs in different media by using different techniques. Advanced oxidation process (AOPs)-based techniques are a common example for the degradation of PAHs by using MOF by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this book chapter, we have explained the diverse aspects used for the degradation of PAHs by using MOF.