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Application of molecularly imprinted and non-imprinted polymers for removal of emerging contaminants in water and wastewater treatment: a review

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Abstract

Over the past decade, several studies have reported trace levels of endocrine disrupting compounds, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products in surface waters, drinking water, and wastewater effluents. There has also been an increased concern about the ecological and human health impact of these contaminants, and their removal from water and wastewater has become a priority. Traditional treatment processes are limited in their ability to remove emerging contaminants from water, and there is a need for new technologies that are effective and feasible. This paper presents a review on recent research results on molecularly imprinted (MIP) and non-imprinted (NIP) polymers and evaluates their potential as a treatment method for the removal of emerging contaminants from water and wastewater. It also discusses the relative benefits and limitations of using MIP or NIP for water and wastewater treatment. MIP, and in particular NIP, offer promising applications for wastewater treatment, but their toxicity and possible health effects should be carefully studied before they are considered for drinking water treatment. More research is also required to determine how best to incorporate MIP and NIP in treatment plants.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel by Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada

    Audrey Murray & Banu Örmeci

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  1. Audrey Murray
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  2. Banu Örmeci
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Correspondence to Banu Örmeci.

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Responsible editor: Hongwen Sun

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Murray, A., Örmeci, B. Application of molecularly imprinted and non-imprinted polymers for removal of emerging contaminants in water and wastewater treatment: a review. Environ Sci Pollut Res 19, 3820–3830 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-012-1119-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-012-1119-2

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