Solar photocatalytic pathogenic disinfection: Fundamentals to state-of-the-art

It is necessary to treat pathogen-infected water before its utilisation. Of conventionally used treatment methods, solar photocatalysis has gained considerable momentum owing to its operational simplicity and capacity to use freely and abundantly available solar energy. This article systematically reviewed the disinfection of water with photocatalysis. It addressed the concerns of microbial infection of water and the fundamentals behind its treatment with photocatalysis. It presented an in-depth description of pathogenic deactivation with powerful reactive oxygen species. Special emphasis was given to process intensification as it is an attractive technique that provides multifunctionality and/or equipment miniaturisation. Solar reactor design regarding mobilised/immobilised photocatalysts and compound parabolic concentrators were elucidated. Finally, key parameters governing photoperformance, corresponding trade-offs, and the need for their optimisation were discussed. Overall, this article is a single point of reference for researchers, environmentalists, and industrialists who address the ever-severing challenge of providing clean water whilst also maintaining energy sustainability.