Cutting-Edge Graphene Nanocomposites for Efficient Pollutant Management in Coal Mining Regions: A Comprehensive Review

Both the Sustainable Development Goal and the European Green Deal prioritized a waste-free, climate-neutral future. But due to human activities and climate change, the environment is getting polluted day by day. The mining activities release numerous toxic heavy metal ions into the surrounding area. Their presence in the air, soil, and water affects human beings as well as plants and animals. This suggests the utilization of various innovative approaches for environmental health. Graphene as a two-dimensional, environmentally friendly nanomaterial has shown its versatile application in several fields owing to its exceptional physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. This comprehensive review summarized popular contaminants found near coal mines, including Eu, Cd, As, and Hg, as well as air pollutants such as SO₂, CO₂, and others, and how graphene-based nanocomposites can be utilized to reduce them. The review discussed the basic properties of two-dimensional graphene sheets and their composites, as well as why they are being considered as possible alternative materials for the detection and removal of coal mining pollutants. Researchers have found that graphene-based nanocomposites are better in the adsorption and removal of these contaminants because they have better electrical, optical, and surface properties. The large surface area of graphene and its ability to functionalize diverse materials position it at the forefront in pollution management. The review further analyzes the current status, challenges in the removal of these contaminants, and future prospects.