Bimetallic Nanoparticles as Pioneering Eco-Friendly Catalysts for Remediation of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs)

Abstract

The persistent presence of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) in water bodies poses a significant threat to environmental and human health. The conventional treatment methods often fall short in efficiently removing these contaminants. In recent years, bimetallic nanoparticles have emerged as promising candidates for the eco-friendly remediation of PPCPs due to their enhanced catalytic properties and synergistic effects. This review explores the recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and application of bimetallic nanoparticles for the removal of PPCPs from water sources. The various synthetic approaches, including chemical reduction, green synthesis, and sonochemical methods, are discussed, highlighting their advantages in achieving controlled morphology and composition. The catalytic mechanisms underlying the degradation of PPCPs by bimetallic nanoparticles are elucidated, emphasizing the roles of electron transfer, surface reactions, and adsorption processes. Further, the influence of key factors such as nanoparticle size, composition, and surface functionalization, etc. on the catalytic efficiency is examined. The potential challenges and future perspectives in the development of bimetallic nanoparticles for PPCP remediation are also addressed, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaborations, and holistic approaches to tackle emerging environmental challenges. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the design and optimization of bimetallic nanoparticles for sustainable water treatment strategies aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of PPCPs on ecosystems and public health.