Photocatalysis for Environmental Remediation: Degradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants

Authors

  • Hafsa Khurshid Department of Chemistry, Mirpur University of Science and Technology, MUST, Mirpur-10250 (AJK), Pakistan
  • Fatima Khurshid Department of Chemistry, Mirpur University of Science and Technology, MUST, Mirpur-10250 (AJK), Pakistan
  • Mansoor Ahmed Khan Pharmaceutical Care Department, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Ministry of National Guards Health Affairs, Saudi Arabia
  • Farva Nayab Department of Chemistry, Mirpur University of Science and Technology, MUST, Mirpur- 10250 (AJK), Pakistan
  • Mehwish Khan Department of Chemistry, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, England

Keywords:

Heterojunctions; Photocatalysis; Pharmaceutical pollutants; Semiconductor; Water treatment

Abstract

Pharmaceuticals, used in human and veterinary medicine, pose a significant environmental and health threat due to their ecotoxicity and microbial resistance. Conventional treatment methods are ineffective, leading to research on advanced oxidation processes like visible-light-assisted semiconductor photocatalysis. This technology, which can use solar energy as a clean and sustainable light source, has significant potential for efficient, low-cost, and green remediation. This review paper aims to provide an overview of pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments, discussing its effects, sources, and mitigation strategies. It also reviews heterogeneous photocatalysis technology, which has been extensively studied and applied in wastewater treatment for the remediation of persistent pollutants like pharmaceuticals. The review paper also identifies barriers and gaps that need to be resolved in the near future.

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Published

2024-11-24

How to Cite

Hafsa Khurshid, Fatima Khurshid, Mansoor Ahmed Khan, Nayab, F., & Mehwish Khan. (2024). Photocatalysis for Environmental Remediation: Degradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants. PAKISTAN JOURNAL OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY, 57(1), 16–36. Retrieved from https://pjbmb.com/index.php/pjbmb/article/view/123