Bacterial deactivation, by cell-wall rupturing, is widely described. This work further describes mineralization of Gram-positive (S. Aureus) and Gram-negative (K. Pneumonia) bacteria in water, leaving no organic species. ZnO nanoparticles are used as photocatalyst. Solar-simulated radiation (with ~5% UV) is used. Complete bacterial deactivation is photocatalyzed by ZnO nanoparticles. Mineralization of bacteria is also achievable by the process, with time. Both bacteria, with thick- and thin- peptidoglycan layers, are mineralized. Sensitization of ZnO, by anthocyanin, enhances their catalytic efficiency under purely visible light. However, simulated-solar radiation is more useful in bacterial deactivation and mineralization than purely visible light even with sensitizer. This indicates the feasibility of using direct solar radiations in photocatalytic water disinfection without the need to use other more costly and hazardous methods. The study is especially useful to many societies having limited access to safe drinking waters

Title

. JOM The Journal of The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS)

Publisher

Springer: The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society (TMS)

Publisher Country

United States of America

Indexing

Thomson Reuters

Impact Factor

2.471

Publication Type

Both (Printed and Online)

Volume

73

Year

2021

Pages

420-431