Core-shell nanoparticles for water purification: Advances in photocatalytic and antimicrobial applications

The depletion of drinking water resources and their increasing contamination have emerged as critical global concerns. The primary causes of this problem include industrialization, urbanization, and climate change, which are intensifying with the growing population. In recent years, nanotechnology-based approaches have shown great promise in mitigating water pollution. This review provides a comprehensive discussion on the photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of light-activated core-shell nanoparticles (CSNPs). It explores their synthesis methods, classifications, and various characterization techniques while examining the impact of structural parameters and support systems on their photocatalytic performance. Additionally, the effect of shell thickness, synergistic interactions between core and shell materials in enhancing photocatalytic and antimicrobial activities are highlighted. The review further addresses future prospects, challenges, and comparative insights into the synthesis and performance optimization of CSNPs.