Enhanced nitrate reduction in hypotrophic waters with integrated photocatalysis and biodegradation

Abstract

Addressing nitrate contamination in water bodies is a critical environmental challenge, and Intimately Coupling Photocatalysis and Biodegradation (ICPB) presents a promising solution. However, there is still debate about the effectiveness of ICPB in reducing nitrate under hypotrophic conditions. Further research is needed to understand its microbial metabolic mechanism and the functional changes in bacterial structure. Here we explored microbial metabolic mechanisms and changes in bacterial structure in ICPB reactors integrating a meticulously screened TiO₂/g-C₃N₄ photocatalyst with biofilm. We achieved a 26.3% increase in nitrate reduction using 12.2% less organic carbon compared to traditional biodegradation methods. Metagenomic analysis of the microbial communities in ICPB reactors revealed evolving metabolic pathways conducive to nitrate reduction. This research not only elucidates the photocatalytic mechanism behind nitrate reduction in hypotrophic conditions but also provides genomic insights that pave the way for alternative approaches in water remediation technologies.