Photocatalytic degradation of (micro)plastics using TiO2-based and other catalysts: Properties, influencing factor, and mechanism

Abstract

(Micro)plastics pollution has raised global concern because of its potential threat to the biota. The review on recent developments of photocatalytic degradation of (micro)plastics is still insufficient. In this study, we have discussed various bare and composites photocatalysts involved in the photocatalytic degradation of (micro)plastics. The photocatalytic mechanisms and factors affecting the degradation were also discussed. To improve the performance of photocatalysts, their surface is modified with metal or non-metal dopants. These doped photocatalysts are then compounded with a variety of environmentally friendly and nontoxic polymers to prepare multifunctional composites. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in the photocatalytic degradation of (micro)plastics, and superoxide ions (O2−) and hydroxyl radicals (OH) participate in the photocatalytic degradation, leading to the breaking of the polymer chain and the production of some intermediates. Although satisfactory progress has been achieved in the photodegradation of (micro)plastics, most photocatalytic degradation technologies investigated to date cannot realize the complete mineralization of (micro)plastics. Furthermore, based on the current challenges of the existing photocatalytic degradation technologies, perspectives for future research directions have been proposed. This review presents a systematic summary of the progress made in the photocatalytic degradation of (micro)plastics and offers a comprehensive reference for future research on improving the (micro)plastics photocatalytic degradation efficiency.