Synergistic Advanced Oxidation and Physicochemical Treatment Strategies for Antibiotic Removal and Resistance Mitigation in Water

Abstract

The presence of antibiotics in water not only causes environmental pollution but also increases the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial genes, which pose serious threats to human beings and other water residents. Large numbers of people are reportedly affected by the resistant bacterial genes, as many broad-spectrum antibiotics are not effective against them. This review discusses various pharmaceutical medicines and antibiotics in different water bodies and their potential to produce toxic pollutants and antibiotic-resistant pathogens in water. Various removal techniques, including adsorption, biodegradation, electrocoagulation, and advanced oxidation processes, have been reviewed to address antibiotic-based pollution and its hazardous effects. Photocatalysis, as an advanced oxidation technique, has been discussed in detail, and the role of biochar in pollutant adsorption, charge separation, and light absorption has been highlighted to enhance the antibiotic eradication through solar light–driven photocatalysis. The classification of antibiotics and their removal mechanisms are highlighted with examples to establish close coordination between various treatment techniques and the simultaneous application of two or more techniques to deal with antibiotic-based pollution. Furthermore, future perspectives are discussed to present a comprehensive analysis and identify existing research gaps in antibiotics removal. This review is expected to attract attention towards the awareness of the antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their associated environmental and health concerns, thereby encouraging the adoption of appropriate preventive measures.