Design of Noble Metal-Modified Bismuth-Based Photocatalysts for Efficient Removal of Antibiotics from Aquatic Systems
Keywords:
Photocatalysis, bismuth-based materials, noble metals, antibiotics degradation, wastewater treatment, visible light, heterojunction, reactive oxygen speciesAbstract
The continuous release of antibiotic compounds into aquatic environments has become a critical environmental challenge in recent decades. Conventional wastewater treatment systems are often unable to completely eliminate these persistent pharmaceutical pollutants, leading to their accumulation in surface water, groundwater, and even drinking water sources. This situation raises serious concerns related to ecological imbalance and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In this context, photocatalysis has emerged as a promising advanced oxidation process for the degradation of such contaminants under light irradiation. Among various photocatalysts, bismuth-based semiconductors have attracted significant attention due to their visible-light responsiveness, layered crystal structures, and relatively low toxicity. However, their practical efficiency is often limited by rapid electron–hole recombination and moderate surface activity.
To overcome these limitations, noble metal modification (such as Ag, Au, and Pt) has been widely explored. These metals enhance charge separation, improve visible-light absorption through surface plasmon resonance effects, and provide active reaction sites for pollutant degradation. This study focuses on the design, synthesis strategies, and photocatalytic performance of noble metal-modified bismuth-based photocatalysts for the efficient removal of antibiotics from aqueous systems.
The work further discusses reaction mechanisms, including reactive oxygen species formation, band structure modulation, and interfacial charge transfer processes. Overall, this research highlights the potential of engineered photocatalysts as sustainable solutions for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment.
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