The use of nanophotocatalysts for the effective mitigation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in aqueous phase

Abstract

The mitigation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the aqueous environment by physical and biological processes is a considerable challenge. Among various remediation approaches, heterogeneous photocatalysis is considered an efficient and eco-friendly option to convert PAHs into less harmful and/or biodegradable end products. This review provides a comprehensive overview of various nanophotocatalysts used to degrade PAHs in water based on their photocatalytic performances (e.g., in terms of quantum efficiency, space-time yield (SY), and figure-of-merit). Among photocatalysts, semiconductor metal oxides (e.g., TiO2 and ZnO) and noble metal-doped graphene composites are identified as the most effective options due to their high photoactivity, low-cost, and tailorable structural/functional characteristics. The present and futuristic challenges in the development of photodegradation of PAHs in aqueous medium are also discussed to deliver a blueprint to construct high performance photocatalysts for their removal.