A Comprehensive Review on Various Phases of Wastewater Technologies: Trends and Future Perspectives

Abstract

Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) encompass a range of processes from preliminary to advanced stages. Conventional treatments are increasingly inadequate for handling emergent pollutants, particularly organic compounds with carcinogenic potential that pose risks to aquifers. Recent advancements prioritize integrating Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) and adsorbents with conventional methods to effectively retain organic pollutants and enhance mineralization. There is a growing preference for non-chemical or minimally chemical approaches. Innovations such as combining ozone and other biological processes with photo-sono-assisted methods, alongside integrating AOPs with adsorbents, are promising. These approaches leverage catalyst-assisted reactions to optimize oxidation efficiency. This review aims to provide a holistic perspective on WWTP processes, spanning wastewater intake to the production of potable water, highlighting key technologies, operational challenges, and future trends. The focus is on advancing sustainable practices and enhancing treatment efficacy to safeguard water quality and address evolving environmental concerns effectively.