CuWO4-based nanocomposites as efficient photocatalysts for antibiotic degradation

• CuWO 4 -based nanocomposites are shown as potent photocatalysts for environmental cleanup. • CuWO 4 nanocomposites for targeted antibiotic degradation in water. • Doping, coupling with semiconductors, and surface tweaks boost these nanocomposites. • Light activation triggers free radical formation, dismantling antibiotic molecules. • Optimizing performance, large-scale production, and environmental impact need further study. CuWO 4 -based nanocomposites have emerged as the promising materials for the photocatalytic degradation of antibiotics due to their unique properties, including high stability, efficient light absorption, and tunable band structures. This review has summarized the recent advancements in the design and synthesis of CuWO 4 -based nanocomposites for antibiotic removal. The different approaches such as doping with various elements, constructing heterostructures with other semiconductors, and modifying their surface with suitable co-catalysts, are critically discussed to enhance their photocatalytic activity. The underlying mechanisms of photocatalytic antibiotic degradation, involving the generation and subsequent reactions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light irradiation, are explored. While significant progress has been made, challenges related to optimizing photocatalytic performance, scaling up production for practical applications, and ensuring the environmental safety of these materials remain crucial for future research.