Development of photocatalysis-membrane separation reactor systems for aqueous pollutant removal

Abstract

Background: In our rapidly expanding society, the demand for clean water has steadily emerged as one of the most critical issues, promoting the development of numerous water treatment strategies.

Aims: Coupling photocatalysis and membrane separation technology provides an energy saving and environment-friendly as well as sustainable method for aqueous pollutants removal due to the synergetic enhanced pollutant removal efficiency and improved anti-fouling performance. It is of great scientific and technical significance to construct multifunctional photocatalysis-membrane separation reactor systems (PMRs) with both the high photocatalytic activity and the strong stability.

Discussion: Herein, in order to introduce the recent advances of this field, we present a critical review on developments of PMRs for aqueous pollutant removal, which includes photocatalysts and membranes, advanced methods for designing PMRs. Meanwhile, the recent applications of PMRs in aqueous pollutant removal, antifouling strategies, and mechanisms have also been summarized, including the latest development of PMRs coupling with other treatment methods. Furthermore, future perspective of PMRs is outlooked and predicted.

Conclusion: PMRs, designed for the removal of aqueous pollutants, offer a more promising solution for the sustainable development of our society in the future.

Keywords

coupling effects / long-term application / photocatalysis-membrane separation reactor / photocatalytic degradation of pollutants / water cleaning

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2023 2023 The Authors. PhotoMat published by University of Shanghai for Science and Technology and Wiley-VCH GmbH.