A new generation of magnetic nanoferrite-based nanocomposites for environmental applications

The progress of ferrite-based nanocomposites in photocatalytic wastewater treatment is continuously escalating. Some of the interesting characteristics that make ferrites excellent photocatalytic materials. are cost-effectiveness, high stability, high catalytic activity, facile functionalization, biocompatibility, and low band gap. Their magnetic behavior imparts easy recovery from the aqueous system, reducing the cost. This chapter deals with the properties and various factors influencing their characteristics, such as doping, pH of the solution, and annealing temperature. The different methods of synthesizing nanoferrites, and the latest advancements in ferrite-based heterojunctions for photodegradation of water pollutants, are elaborated. The conventional type-II and Z-scheme heterojunctions and newly emerging S-scheme heterojunctions are reviewed. Ferrites possess the inherent potential for photocatalytic water remediation applications. Therefore several examples are reported to add valuable knowledge for their extensive application. Finally, the gaps, challenges, and future research needed to improve photocatalytic applications are addressed.