Molecularly imprinted polymer for the removal of nutrients from water: synthesis, application, performance and limitation

Nutrient contamination is a major contributor to eutrophication and water quality degradation worldwide. Conventional treatment technologies often lack selectivity and efficiency in complex aquatic environments, highlighting the need for advanced materials with tailored recognition capabilities. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have emerged as promising adsorbents for nutrient remediation due to their high selectivity, stability and reusability. This review synthesizes recent progress on the synthesis strategies of MIPs. Applications of MIPs in removing phosphate, nitrate and ammonia from water are critically examined, with particular attention to adsorption performance under varying environmental conditions. The limitations of current systems, including modest adsorption capacities, incomplete template removal, matrix interferences and scalability challenges, are discussed alongside concerns about the fate and transport of MIPs in natural waters. Finally, the review highlights future opportunities in green synthesis and hybrid MIP composites to overcome current barriers. Collectively, this work positions MIPs as promising next-generation materials for selective nutrient removal and sustainable water remediation.