Adsorption of heavy metals on molybdenum disulfide in water: A critical review

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2)-based nanomaterials stand out from two-dimensional (2D) materials as a promising adsorbent for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous solution due to their extremely marvelous adsorption performances. The superb uptake capacity is primarily ascribed to the intrinsically rich S atoms exposed on the surface of MoS2, which distinguishes MoS2-based nanomaterials from other 2D materials. This work presents the latest advances of MoS2 nanomaterials as adsorbent for the removal of heavy metal ions in water. Various preparation methods, as well as the structure, property and modification of MoS2, is summarized. The adsorption capacity and mechanisms, affecting factors and regeneration are highlighted. The practical application of MoS2 as potential adsorbent for the removal of heavy metals from water is emphasized, and research needed for future application is simultaneously identified.