Fakioglu, Ahrens, & Ozturk (2024) A Review on Pharmaceuticals Removal from Wastewater Effluents by Single and Combined Ozone-Sorption Systems and Fate of Transformation Products. Ozone: Science & Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1080/01919512.2024.2309958

The presence of pharmaceuticals in water bodies raises concerns due to potential harm to both wildlife and humans. Traditional wastewater treatment plants often fall short in efficiently removing these compounds, prompting exploration into alternative methods like oxidation and adsorption. A recent review delves into the effectiveness of combining ozonation and adsorption filtration systems to eliminate pharmaceuticals and their byproducts from municipal wastewater effluents.

Ozonation exhibits significant potential in removing pharmaceuticals from municipal wastewater, although it can generate toxic transformation products. To counter this, post-treatment steps become crucial, with activated carbonActivated carbon is a form of carbon that has been processed to create a vast network of tiny pores, increasing its surface area significantly. This extensive surface area makes activated carbon exceptionally effective at trapping and holding impurities, like a molecular sponge. It is commonly More emerging as a common choice. The review also explores alternative sorption methods, including ion exchange, biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More, constructed wetlands, and biofiltration, with biochar standing out as a promising, sustainable adsorbent.

The combination of ozonation and adsorption methods proves to be a powerful strategy, addressing limitations of each treatment individually and enhancing overall efficiency. This comprehensive approach holds promise for mitigating pharmaceutical pollution in water bodies, safeguarding both ecosystems and human health.