An overview of low-temperature plasma surface modification of carbon materials for removal of pollutants from liquid and gas phases

As a promising surface treatment technique, low-temperature plasma (LTP) technology has been widely used over the past two decades. Herein, the surface modification of carbon materials using LTP treatment is reviewed to clarify the modification effects. First, the basic details of LTP treatment are summarized. Second, the surface morphology, pore structure, surface chemistry, adsorption performance, and catalytic characteristics of LTP-treated carbon materials are reviewed. Finally, the research required to further develop LTP technology for the surface modification of carbon materials is discussed. This review will contribute toward advancing the application of LTP-treated carbon materials in environmental pollution control.