Piezocatalysis for water treatment: Mechanisms, recent advances, and future prospects

Piezocatalysis, which converts mechanical energy into chemical energy via the piezoelectric properties of materials, has emerged as a promising, eco-friendly technology for advanced oxidation processes in water treatment. It can be synergistically combined with other advanced oxidation techniques, such as photocatalysis and Fenton reactions, to enhance contaminant removal efficiency. In this Review article, we outline the fundamental principles of piezocatalysis, the mechanical energy sources employed, and recent advancements in piezocatalysis-coupled techniques for water decontamination. We systematically examine three potential mechanisms of piezocatalysis, assess the benefits and drawbacks of various mechanical energy inputs, and highlight the synergistic effects observed in combined systems. Furthermore, the review provides a roadmap for future research, emphasizing key areas such as piezocatalysis mechanisms, catalyst design, reactor architecture, and practical applications for water treatment. By offering a comprehensive analysis of current progress and challenges, this review is expected to stimulate further research into the theoretical and practical aspects of piezocatalysis-coupled technologies. • The review discusses the three fundamental principles that govern piezocatalysis. • It compares the merits and limitations of various mechanical energy sources used in piezocatalysis. • The mechanisms and practical applications of piezocatalysis-coupled oxidation techniques are thoroughly examined. • A detailed roadmap for future research directions, including piezocatalysis mechanisms, catalyst design, and real-world applications, is provided.