Application of TiO2 in Photocatalytic Bacterial Inactivation: Review

Abstract

Photocatalytic pathogen inactivation is gaining increasing importance due to the rising number of microbial species resistant to conventional antibacterial agents. Titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based photocatalysts have emerged as a promising solution, being not only potent antibacterial agents but also environmentally friendly and capable of simultaneously degrading organic pollutants. This review summarizes recent advances in the antibacterial performance of different TiO2 modifications, including commercial nanopowders, nanoparticles with various morphologies, thin films, composites, and polymer-supported nanostructures, all primarily activated under UV light. Given the limited ability of pristine TiO2 to harvest solar radiation, we also highlight the most recent strategies for designing visible-light-responsive TiO2, such as doping, incorporation of plasmonic metal nanoparticles, formation of heterostructures, and interfacial charge transfer complexes. In addition, we discuss the fundamental structural features of TiO2, the mechanisms of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation involved in bacterial inactivation, and kinetic models describing antibacterial efficiency. These insights aim to advance the understanding and development of eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable photocatalytic disinfection technologies.