Recent progress in nanomaterials for air quality improvement

Abstract Nanomaterials have emerged as highly effective candidates for air quality improvement due to their exceptional surface area, tuneable porosity, and catalytic activity. Recent studies report CO₂ adsorption capacities as high as 3.89 mmol g⁻1 for MOF-based materials, VOC degradation efficiencies up to 98% using TiO₂ nanoparticles, and PM₂.₅ removal efficiencies exceeding 90% using carbon nanotube-based filters. In addition, nanosensors based on metal oxide heterostructures demonstrate high sensitivity toward NO₂ detection at ppm and sub-ppm levels. This review critically examines recent advances in nanomaterials for emission control, carbon capture, air purification, and pollutant sensing, while highlighting current challenges related to scalability, stability, and environmental safety. Future research prospects are discussed, particularly the design of multifunctional nanomaterials, the advancement of scalable synthesis techniques, and their integration into next-generation air quality management frameworks.