Recent developments in graphene-based/nanometal composite filter membranes

Significant achievements have been made in the development of next-generation filtration and separation membranes using graphene materials; graphene-based membranes are promising in many areas, such as membrane separation, water desalination, proton conductors, and energy storage and conversion. In recent years, based on the excellent barrier and permeability of graphene sheets, researchers have conducted considerable research on graphene-based composite filter membranes and have made great progress. In this review paper, we summarize the key research contributions in graphene-based/nanometal composite membranes, analyze the existing problems, and elaborate on the potential application in water treatment and development trend of this kind of membrane. Graphene-based/nanometal composite membranes not only have good antibacterial activity and adsorbability, but also have potential application in seawater desalination and sewage treatment. Therefore, we can foresee that graphene-based/nanometal composite membranes will play an important role in water treatment. This review will serve as a valuable platform to fully understand filtration and adsorption mechanism through graphene-based membranes as well as the latest progress in graphene-based/nanometal composite filter membranes.