Selective removal of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) from urban water cycle via Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs): Potential of upscaling and enabling reclaimed water reuse

Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are one the main barriers in water cycle as they limit reuse due to their adverse effects on humans and ecosystem. Natural and/or engineered ecosystems, such conventional wastewater treatment processes, not designed remove CECs contribute bioaccumulation organisms considering high volumes treated discharges. The adoption innovative solutions upgrade urban facilities has gained relevance for removal these substances from final effluents. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) show promising selective toward a wide range CECs. However, this process is still limited lab/bench scale needs be critically analyzed assessed possible scale-up real environment. Therefore, review, an overview fate occurrence initially reported together with state-of-the-art adsorption mechanisms compounds. In central part paper, evaluation MIPs synthesis status removing matrix presented. An upscaling pathway column lab- pilot-scale given applied enhanced safe irrigation/fertigation. Finally, integration MIP columns discussed advantages disadvantages potential addressed enhance sustainability.