Cost of adsorbent preparation and usage in wastewater treatment: A review

• The cost of adsorbent preparation and usage was reviewed (2016 – 2022). • A quantitative metric the adsorbent cost performance, Ĉ (in $/mol) was developed. • Adsorbents at 〈 1 $/mol are relatively cheap while those 〉 200 $/mol are expensive. • Cost analysis can extend the practical relevance of routine adsorption studies . The cost of adsorbent preparation and usage is an important factor that determines its suitability for use in wastewater treatment in light of other competing technologies. Adsorbent cost can be determined via the cost of raw materials, discounted cash flow, cost indices, cost of adsorbent per gram of the adsorbate removed, Annual Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) and Operating Expenditures…