ABSTRACT
Aerogels, the 3D solid scaffolds, prepared from hydro-gels/sol-gels by replacing the liquid phase with air, are gaining immense interest in a wide range of environmental applications. The tunable and exceptional properties viz. ultralow density, lightweight, excellent porosity, good mechanical strength, and large accessible surface area make aerogels promising candidates for adsorptive removal of organic pollutants and heavy metals from wastewater and the oil-water separation applications. The chapter discusses the preparation of aerogels using a wide range of carbon nanomaterials and biopolymers-based building blocks/precursors, including the use of binders/linkers. The overview of the physical, structural, and surface properties of aerogels is presented to emphasize their roles in the fast and efficient adsorption of water pollutants. The surface affinity of aerogels is discussed to underline their applicability for oil-water separation. It further covers the recent advances, technological challenges, and futuristic opportunities on the preparation and application of aerogels for water remediation.
