A Review on Photocatalytic Degradation of Hazardous Polychlorinated Biphenyls ( PCBs ) Using Nano‐Structured Materials

Abstract

ABSTRACT Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants widely distributed in aquatic environments due to their chemical stability, hydrophobicity, and resistance to natural degradation. Their continuous release, coupled with long‐term transportation, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification, poses serious ecological and human health risks, including carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, and neurotoxicity. This review critically examines recent advances in the photocatalytic degradation technique for the removal of PCBs using nanomaterials. Emphasis is placed on the photocatalytic degradation performance, with reported efficiencies demonstrating significant potential. The reusability and stability of these nanomaterials are also discussed, highlighting their economic and practical viability. Furthermore, the effectiveness of these materials in complex real water matrices and industrial effluents was evaluated to bridge the gap between laboratory studies and real‐world applications. Attention is also given to the ecotoxicological implications of PCB degradation intermediates, which may pose secondary environmental risks. Overall, the photocatalytic degradation technique emerges as a promising and sustainable strategy for mitigating PCB contamination, although challenges related to large‐scale implementation and environmental safety remain.