Nano-scale zero-valent iron agent in contaminated areas: a review

Pollution has become a target for environmental policies and numerous research due to a large number of contaminated environmental areas. Many measures must be applied and new remediation methods have been developed, such as nanoremediation. Nanotechnology is an ally of environmental science and among the nanomaterials used, zero-valent iron in nanoparticles is the most used for nanoremediation of soils and aquatic systems, due to its properties, effectiveness on a great variety of contaminants, the reduction of costs, and a higher decontamination efficiency. The aim of this study is to discuss the application of nanovaliant zero-valent iron as a nanoremediation tool for devastated environmental areas, aquatic systems and soil contaminated by different polluting agents. We based the research in 33 articles, which provided diverse information on the application, development, ecotoxicity and other relevant subjects on these nanoparticles. Most publications indicated the effectiveness of the application of it for the treatment of soil and aquatic systems.