Piezoelectric water disinfection: Mechanisms, applications, and emerging prospects

Abstract

Water disinfection is pivotal in controlling disease spread and improving environmental sanitation. However, traditional methods, such as oxidation and irradiation, often necessitate high chemical dosages and lead to the generation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Emerging catalytic processes, including photocatalysis, pyrocatalysis, and contact-electro-catalysis, also face significant limitations, such as restricted light energy utilization, suboptimal efficacy, and low material utilization, respectively. In response, piezoelectric water disinfection has gained attention as a promising alternative, capable of overcoming these challenges through mechanical energy conversion. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of piezoelectric water disinfection technology, focusing on its underlying mechanisms, practical applications, and future prospects. We highlight the role of piezoelectric electroporation as a novel disinfection mechanism, complementing the previously explored piezocatalysis. Additionally, we explore various mechanical force sources, emphasizing the potential of non-energy-consuming mechanical forces as a sustainable avenue for advancing piezoelectric disinfection. The feasibility and advantages of this technology are further demonstrated through lists of disinfection cases and a comparative analysis of its economic and ecological benefits relative to both traditional and emerging disinfection methods. Finally, this review discusses strategies to optimize piezoelectric water disinfection technology for universal, efficient, stable, and sustainable water disinfection, aiming to accelerate the adoption of piezoelectric technology as an environmentally friendly solution.