Two-Dimensional Transition Metal Chalcogenides for Water and Wastewater Remediation: A Review Publisher



Singh S ; Soni R ; Lokhande PE ; Kumar D ; Ghotekar S ; Praveenkumar S ; Singh K ; Mubarak NM ; SUHAS ; Karri RR ; Dehghani MH
Source: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology Published:2026

Abstract

Rapid urbanization, faster industrialization, ongoing population growth and poor environmental governance have all contributed to a sharp rise in resource use and severe water pollution on a global scale. Heavy metals, pharmaceutical residues and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are frequently ineffectively removed by conventional water treatment techniques. In this regard, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have become very successful methods for breaking down stubborn pollutants by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) in-situ, such as superoxide (O2·−) and hydroxyl (·OH) radicals. Given their effectiveness, it is imperative that AOP-based technologies be promoted in order to address the growing problems associated with water contamination. Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs), transition metal oxides (TMOs) and their composites have drawn interest among new photocatalytic materials because of their adjustable bandgap energy, potent light-absorbing capacity, chemical stability, affordability and availability in nature. Recent developments in the synthesis, modification and environmental uses of these layered materials for water filtration are systematically examined in this study. The focus is on transition metal sulfides (TMSs) and how doping, heterojunction fabrication and surface modification techniques can improve their catalytic activity. Additionally, a thorough discussion is given of the synthesis techniques, adsorption characteristics and photocatalytic mechanisms of 2D TMOs and carbon-based composite materials. Fenton-like oxidation systems using TMSs-based catalysts in wastewater treatment are investigated in particular, along with the mechanistic pathways and effects of operational parameters on AOP efficiency including pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, inorganic ions and natural organic matter. To ascertain the practical suitability of these catalysts for sustainable water remediation, stability, recyclability and deactivation mechanisms are further assessed. This review offers a thorough grasp of TMC- and TMO-based materials as prospective photocatalysts for sophisticated oxidation processes, directing future development and improvement for the reduction of environmental pollution. © The Author(s) under exclusive licence to Iranian Society of Environmentalists (IRSEN) and Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University 2026.