Water disinfection: Advances in photocatalysis and piezo/triboelectric catalysis with progressively enhanced energy utilization

Abstract

AbstractIncreasing climate‐related extreme weather events and conflicts hinder safe water sanitation for vulnerable populations. In developing areas, centralized water systems are impractical due to high costs and poor infrastructure. Thus, technologies utilizing renewable energy like solar and mechanical energy for water treatment hold promise. It is critical to develop photocatalysts and piezoelectric/triboelectric catalysts that capture solar energy as well as mechanical energy to generate disinfectants to maximize energy utilization. The latest advancements in principles, materials, and processes utilizing solar and mechanical energy for water disinfection are highlighted in this review. First, we elucidate both direct and indirect mechanisms of sunlight‐mediated water disinfection, discuss the evolution of photocatalysts from simple UV absorption to visible‐light utilization, and even near‐infrared light exploitation to enhance solar spectrum utilization efficiency. Furthermore, we delve into the fundamental principles of piezoelectricity and triboelectricity relying on mechanical energy conversion as well as summarize the development of piezo/triboelectric catalysts from being driven by high‐frequency energy to utilizing low‐frequency mechanical energy from the environment. Finally, challenges and directions for efficient systems are outlined to inspire rational design strategies and accelerate the production of superior catalytic systems applicable across a broad range.