Modification of activated carbon for enhanced treatment of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances: A focused review

Abstract

Abstract In response to the growing concern over the contamination of water sources by per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the use of activated carbon (AC) for PFAS removal has garnered significant attention. However, the efficient removal of PFAS with conventional AC poses challenges due to the limited surface area and delayed absorption kinetics. This focused review provides a concise overview of the latest advancements in the modification of AC, a promising strategy for enhancing PFAS adsorption. Chemical and physical modifications, including the deposition of metal/metal oxide nanoparticles, polymer‐based coatings, surfactants, and advanced oxidation processes, were explored, offering insights into their mechanisms and effectiveness. The thorough analysis of these modified AC materials provides a valuable resource for developing efficient and sustainable strategies to address the pressing issue of PFAS contamination in water sources.