Environmental pollution is a critical global concern that necessitates
innovative and sustainable solutions. Among the emerging technologies, photocatalysis
using nanomaterials (NMs) has gained significant attention for its potential in
environmental remediation. Photoexcitation of wide-bandgap semiconductors like
TiO2
, ZnO, SnO2
, CdS, and WO3
in aqueous media leads to electron-hole pair
generation, initiating subsequent photocatalytic processes. The photocatalytic activity
is enhanced by the involvement of NMs like Metal oxide NMs, Metal NMs, Graphenebased NMs, and Quantum dots. This chapter explores the photocatalytic activity of
various NMs and their applications in addressing environmental challenges. The
synergistic effects of NMs in pollutant degradation, wastewater treatment, air
purification, and soil remediation are discussed, highlighting the promising prospects
for sustainable environmental management. The escalating threats posed by
environmental pollution necessitate innovative and sustainable approaches to
remediation. The size-dependent properties of NMs result in increased photocatalytic
activity, rendering them highly effective in the degradation of diverse environmental
pollutants. The interplay between NMs and photocatalysis is elucidated, emphasizing
the promising avenues for addressing challenges associated with water, soil, and air
quality. As we delve into the applications and mechanisms of NM-based
photocatalysis, the chapter also addresses current limitations and future prospects. The
insights presented herein contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the
photocatalytic activity and potential of NMs, paving the way for sustainable
environmental remediation strategies.
Keywords: Contaminants, CNTs, Degradation, Environmental pollution, Graphene oxide, Heavy metals, TiO2 , Photocatalysis, Phytoremediation.
