Recognizing the significance of graphene and its derivatives, the overarching goal is to develop advanced composites based on graphene derivatives that have improved properties for treating wastewater containing a variety of organic, inorganic, and/or pathogenic pollutants using various techniques. In this study, we delineate the production of graphene derivatives obtained from a variety of sources, such as graphite, coal, and rice husk. The comparison of the synthesised graphene derivatives' respective levels of efficiency was thoroughly discussed. We also developed composite materials by combining these derivatives with diverse nanomaterials (novel GO-Fe₃O₄-PEI composite) and semiconductors (TiO₂@Gd₂O₃@g-C₃N₄) to enhance their performance in wastewater treatment. Additionally, we sought to optimize the catalyst (g-C₃N₄@Gd₂O₃@CNT) to function without relying on light. Specifically, we engineered a hybrid filtration system (g-C₃N₄@Gd₂O₃@CNT@PU based flat plate photoreactor) for water purification to augment the effectiveness of graphene-based materials in addressing water treatment challenges. The overarching objective is to leverage graphene's distinctive attributes to enhance water filtration processes and surmount the limitations associated with conventional water purification technologies.