Development of photodynamic wastewater remediation processes using photosensitive molecules of vegetable origin on supporting materials

This PhD project focuses on addressing clean water shortages by improving wastewater (WW) disinfection methods, aligning with Goal 6 of the 2030 Agenda. Research initially examined chemical and UV disinfection at a WW treatment plant, evaluating their effectiveness and economic viability. UV-C lamps proved advantageous over chemical methods in antimicrobial effectiveness against bacteria like E. coli and Pseudomonas spp.. The study then explored an innovative photodynamic inactivation (PDI) technique using photosensitive materials developed from waste processing: Chapter 4: Curpol, a curcumin-based coating, showed high microbial reduction and reusability. Chapter 5: PORPEC, a pectin-porphyrin composite, displayed moderate antimicrobial activity. Chapter 6: A vanillin-based polymer demonstrated strong antimicrobial properties and reusability. Chapter 7: Polymers with varying carboxylic chain lengths were synthesized to optimize properties and effectiveness. Finally, Chapter 8 explored scaling PDI using sunlight (SODIS) and visible light in a benchtop reactor, showing significant improvements in water disinfection efficacy.