Applications of Nanomaterials for the Effective Elimination of Fluoride from Water

Fluoride contamination in groundwater poses a major challenge for various countries globally due to the consumption of high levels of fluoride from tainted subsurface water sources. The water contamination with fluoride can be linked to both natural occurrences and anthropogenic activities. Elevated concentrations of fluoride in drinking water can lead to irreversible demineralization of bones and teeth, a condition known as fluorosis, as well as other health issues. Therefore, there has been a persistent demand for the elimination of fluoride from drinking water to ensure its safety for human consumption. Adsorption is widely recognized as the most commonly employed method for fluoride removal among the various available techniques. This preference can be attributed to its cost-effectiveness, user-friendly nature, and its ability to be easily implemented on a commercial scale. Furthermore, adsorption is a straightforward physical technique that requires minimal complexity, making it a popular choice for addressing fluoride contamination. This chapter presents an overview of different innovative nanoadsorbents designed for the purpose of removing fluoride from water sources.