Photocatalytic, electrocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic degradation of pharmaceuticals in aqueous media: Analytical methods, mechanisms, simulations, catalysts and reactors

Pharmaceuticals are used every day in most parts of the world and great proportions these substances excreted unaltered or as active sub-products, posing a threat pollution. To protect aquatic ecosystems, innovative solutions such photocatalysis, electrocatalysis photoelectrocatalysis required. In this article we provide comprehensive review photo- electrocatalytic techniques for removal pharmaceuticals from water wastewaters. The analytical toxicity methods commonly to study degradation presented, it is pointed high performance liquid chromatography analysis common method evaluate efficiency pharmaceutical's degradation. However, also highlighted that evaluation fundamental ensure adequate treatment. determination reactive species mechanistic essential understanding enhancing process. A deep discussion principles practical examples their application treatment presented. catalytic materials reactors processes pollutants reviewed focusing on some representative examples. reusability catalysts still restricted few reuse cycles. It was observed very limited results larger amounts effluent lack information about process costs, which were correlated difficulty real scale. Finally, main advantages degradation, drawbacks, low quantum and/or energetic consume out along with alternatives overcome limitations.