Clay-based photocatalytic membranes: low-cost alternative materials for water treatment

Abstract

The integration of photocatalysis and membrane filtration has emerged as a promising technology for water treatment, offering the dual advantages of physical separation and degradation of organic pollutants. However, the high cost and complexity of current membrane materials limit their large-scale application. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of clay-based photocatalytic membranes as a low-cost, sustainable alternative for water purification. It highlights the natural abundance, structural versatility, and surface functionality of clay minerals that make them ideal candidates for membrane fabrication. The review discusses various fabrication techniques and key factors affecting membrane structure and performance. Furthermore, it includes current applications of these membranes in pollutant degradation, alongside an evaluation of challenges and future perspectives for practical deployment in water treatment systems.