Advanced oxidation processes via semiconductor photocatalysis for water treatment have been the subject of extensive research over the past three decades, producing manyscientific reports focused on elucidating mechanisms and enhancing kinetics for the treatment of contaminants in water. Many of these reports imply that the ultimate goal of the research is to apply photocatalysis in municipal water treatment operations. However, this ignores immense technology transfer problems, perpetuating a widening gap between academic advocation and industrial performance. In this article, we undertake a critical examination of the trajectory of photocatalytic water treatment research, assessing the viability of proposed applications and identifying those with the most tangible future. Several strategies are proposed for scientists and engineers who aim to support research efforts to bring industrially relevant photocatalytic water treatment processes to fruition.Although reassessed potential may not live up to initial academic hype, an unfavorable assessment in some areas does not preclude the transfer of photocatalysis for water treatment to other niche applications, since the technology retains substantive and unique benefits.

Technology horizon for photocatalytic water treatment: Sunrise or sunset?

2019 Spring National Meeting

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.