Recent advances in the development of MXene-based membranes for oil/water separation: A critical review

Industrial discharge of emulsified oily wastewater and regular oil spills have posed serious threats to the aquatic environment. MXenes, owing to their remarkable physicochemical properties have gained considerable attention in the past decade as promising materials to be employed in water remediation technologies. This review aimed to explore the recent advances and potential of MXene-based membranes in the separation of oily wastewater. The preparation stages of the MXene-based membranes are presented in detail and their applications in oil/water (O/W) separation technologies are evaluated. These membranes have disclosed remarkable potential in O/W separation. The separation mechanism of different oil emulsions by MXene-based membranes is critically assessed. Furthermore, the regeneration potential of these membranes and their stability performance are critically evaluated. The key technological challenges that limit the practical applications of these membranes under real conditions are identified. Recommendations are provided to overcome these challenges and a roadmap is suggested for future research work to utilize MXene-based membranes in real water treatment.