Laser-induced graphene and carbon nanotubes as conductive carbon-based materials in environmental technology

Nanotechnology and nanomaterials have attracted interest due to their potential in mitigating contemporary environmental challenges, such as the stressors imposed by increased industrial and agricultural activities, and the deterioration of air, soil and water quality. In particular, advanced technologies that harness carbon-based nanomaterials are poised to emerge as tools that provide new solutions for the global water crises. These tools include, electrically conductive membrane processes, which uniquely combine a separation process with a functional surface. In this respect, laser-induced graphene (LIG) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are electrically conductive carbon nanomaterials that hold great utility in a multitude of environmental applications, including the development of fouling-resistant systems for desalination and water treatment, enhanced separation methods, and innovative pollutant sensing and electrocatalytic platforms. Consequently, this review article describes and compares some important recent advances in LIG- and CNT-based electroactive surfaces. The discussion of LIG as an emerging carbon material set in context with CNTs is intended to shed light on future directions and development possibilities to meet the growing global challenges in terms of water treatment applications of both materials as well as other electrically conductive carbon-based nanomaterials exhibiting exceptional performance and versatility.