Advancement in photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin: mechanisms, materials and environmental remediation

Ciprofloxacin (CIP), a widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic, poses significant ecological risks due to its persistence in water systems and contribution to antibiotic resistance. Traditional wastewater treatment methods are ineffective in completely degrading CIP, necessitating more advanced solutions. This review explores the potential of photocatalytic degradation as a promising approach for CIP removal, focusing on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) using various photocatalysts. The influence of operational parameters such as catalyst type, CIP dosage, pH, temperature, and light source on degradation efficiency is critically evaluated. Recent advancements in visible-light-responsive photocatalysts and hybrid treatment systems are discussed, along with their performance metrics. The paper concludes with future directions for developing novel materials and integrated systems to enhance environmental remediation, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the photocatalytic degradation process of CIPs.