Detection and remediation of arsenic: Mechanisms, recent innovations, and future trends

In recent decades, environmental arsenic contamination from industrialization and urbanization has grown to be a serious worldwide concern. Because it poses a serious threat to ecosystems and human health, its environmental persistence necessitates efficient monitoring and remediation methods from both industry and academia. Various traditional techniques for detecting and eliminating arsenic, but these techniques are very time-consuming and not environmentally friendly in nature. As a result, the present review provides an overview of the latest developments in nanotechnology-based methods for arsenic detection and removal. The present work also covers a variety of nano-sensors that provide sensitive and real-time arsenic monitoring, including electrochemical, fluorescent, and colorimetric sensors. The review explores arsenic removal strategies using nanomaterials like iron nanoparticles, TiO₂ composites, and carbon-based materials, highlighting adsorption, photocatalytic redox mechanisms, and synergistic interactions that enable effective arsenic conversion and capture. Particular attention is paid to how surface chemistry, nanostructure engineering, and the generation of reactive species can enhance the removal efficiency of arsenite (As(III)) and arsenate (As(V)). The review also highlights future directions, focusing on how real-time detection and remediation combined with AI, IoT, and genetic engineering can lead to cost-effective arsenic removal. In conclusion, this review closes the gap between treatment and detection by presenting a comprehensive outlook on sustainable, nanotechnology-mediated solutions for arsenic removal.