Sonocatalytic degradation of bisphenol A in aqueous solution: A review☆

Abstract

Owing to the expansion of the manufacturing industry, bisphenol A (BPA) is being discharged into aquatic environments, posing a global concern. Numerous studies have recognized the adverse effects of BPA exposure on ecosystems and humans. Therefore, advanced remediation technologies are gaining increasing attention. Beyond the achievements of conventional water treatment processes, sonocatalysis provides several benefits, including effectiveness under ambient conditions, promising mineralization efficiency, and compatibility with nanostructured or hybrid catalysts. This review presents progress and developments made over the past ten years in the field of sonocatalysis related to BPA. Focusing mainly on BPA sonodegradation mechanisms, the effects of solution chemistry (e.g., pH, temperature, naturally occurring ions, natural organic matter, and scavengers), ultrasonication parameters (e.g., ultrasonic frequency, power, and operation mode), and the physicochemical properties of BPA (e.g., pKa, hydrophobicity, and molecular configuration) were evaluated. Overall, sonocatalysis demonstrated competent BPA degradation, whereas hybrid systems (e.g., O3, sono-Fenton, and ultraviolet/ visible light irradiation) enhanced radical utilization. Finally, we discuss the current limitations and potential areas for future research, with the aim of guiding subsequent investigations towards practical applications.