Cobalt ferrite nanoparticles and nanocomposites: Photocatalytic, antimicrobial activity and toxicity in water treatment

Abstract

Cobalt ferrite nanoparticles and nanocomposites have received great attention from the researchers due to their unique properties such as high pollutant adsorption capacities, excellent photocatalytic, and antimicrobial activities. Consequently, a number of recently published research studies with respect to cobalt ferrite nanoparticles and nanocomposites available that deserve to be reviewed. This review addresses the cobalt ferrite nanoparticles synthesis methods, available surface stabilisation for improving the photocatalytic properties, and possible means of enhancing antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, possible means of recoverability and reusability of cobalt ferrite after being used, which are the fundamentals for cost-effectiveness and sustainability of wastewater treatment are included in this review. Based on this review, systematic toxicity study and comparison of merits and demerits of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles surface modifiers are lacking in the literature and need to be addressed in future research. Overall, this review sheds light on the current status of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles and nanocomposites with respect to its application in wastewater treatment, advantages, and toxicity aspects.