Advances in Photocatalytic Disinfection: Performances and Mechanisms

Photocatalytic technology is a sustainable, efficient, and eco-friendly advanced oxidation process for addressing the hazards of microorganisms (bacteria and viruses). In this article, the latest results in the studies on the use of semiconductor photocatalysts to remove microorganisms and their related genes (DNA and RNA) from the environment, including operating conditions and removal efficiency, are summarized. The photocatalytic-disinfection mechanism is described in detail, related to solar (especially ultraviolet light) disinfection, physical damage by sharp edges of photocatalysts, and various reactive oxygen species generated during photocatalytic processes. Also, the difficulties and challenges of photocatalytic disinfection in practical applications are discussed. With the further development of photocatalysis technology, sunlight-driven and even indoor-light-driven photocatalysts will have a more promising application in environmental disinfection involving water, air, and object surfaces.