ABSTRACT
Photochemical and sonochemical strategies have been promising for decades in degrading organic molecules in water and, more recently, on micropollutants’ treatments for Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs). The degradation of micropollutants can be induced directed/undirected by applying ultraviolet irradiation (UV‐A and UV‐C radiation). This process is known as photolysis (which uses UV, VUV, or sunlight alone to transform molecules); it is of great importance in surface waters and is used in laboratory experiments to simulate the abiotic transformation of pollutants in the euphotic zone. Another interesting aspect of photolysis is the possibility of applying photocatalysts, such as TiO2, which greatly enhance the rate of oxidation of micropollutants by UV radiation. Also, sonolysis as a novel AOP was discussed. Sonochemical treatment is based on applying low-to-medium frequency (typically in the range of 20–1,000 kHz) and high-energy ultrasound to catalyze the destruction of micropollutants in waters without extra chemicals or catalysts. The synergisms between photo and sono-transformation include homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis on AOPs. In summary, the advantages and disadvantages of the different strategies were discussed. Photochemistry and sonochemistry can be considered promising emerging green chemical approaches to water treatment.
