Advances in Photocatalysis for Industrial Wastewater Treatment: Materials, Mechanisms and Applications

ABSTRACT Industrial wastewater treatment is a growing concern due to the discharge of pollutants/contaminants originating from different industrial sectors such as textiles, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals and dyes. These substances may adversely affect both ecological systems and living organisms. To minimise these effects, many treatment methods have been proposed, and out of all, photocatalysis is the most promising technology. This review offers a comprehensive examination of various photocatalytic materials and the underlying mechanisms governing the photocatalysis process. Factors that influence the photocatalysis process were also discussed. The study further reviews the advancements in the synthesis of photocatalytic materials using doping and heterojunction strategies. Finally, the study presents a comprehensive review of different photocatalysts used for various wastewater treatment applications.