AI-driven transformation of water treatment technology and industry: toward a new era of comprehensive innovation

Abstract

The global water treatment industry urgently demands improved efficiency, energy conservation, and resource recovery. In response to these pressing challenges, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly emerging as a driving force for advancing water treatment technology and industry innovation, demonstrating unprecedented potential in data analysis, process prediction, strategy optimization, and resource allocation. However, the application of AI in water treatment currently lacks a systematic theoretical framework and empirical research. In particular, there is a significant gap in the implementation of AI-driven water treatment processes and the evaluation of the water industry, which urgently requires further exploration and resolution. This paper systematically sorts out the transformative logic of AI-driven water treatment technology and industry, analyzing frontier topics in the field from the perspectives of technology development paradigms, engineering application methods, and industry ecosystem models. It also proposes future research priorities and action recommendations, to provide empirical insights for the strategic deployment and execution of smart water management.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Artificial intelligence / Water treatment / Technological innovation / Industrial transformation / Smart water

Highlight

	● A tri-axis roadmap is proposed to structure AI integration in water treatment.
	● Evolution from local optimization to full-chain AI-enabled coordination is mapped.
	● A shift to AI-enabled processes and lifecycle control in water treatment is revealed.
	● Extension of the water industry value chain by data-driven services is identified.

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RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

The Author(s) 2025. This article is published with open access at link.springer.com and journal.hep.com.cn