Innovative strategies for organophosphorus remediation: Integrating enzymatic decomposition with membrane technologies

Organophosphorus (OP) compounds, widely used in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and flame retardancy, pose significant environmental and health risks due to their toxicity, particularly neurotoxicity. While enzymatic degradation and membrane technologies have been studied separately for OP remediation, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the synergistic integration of enzyme-based catalysis with membrane systems. This review addresses this gap by analyzing how enzyme immobilization onto membrane supports enhances the efficiency, stability, and reusability of organophosphorus (OP) degradation processes. We compare various enzyme immobilization strategies (adsorption, covalent bonding, crosslinking) and assess their respective benefits and challenges. Additionally, we introduce a new framework aligning membrane-supported enzyme systems with specific OP decomposition challenges, such as enzyme deactivation and improving continuous-flow performance. Furthermore, this review highlights emerging trends, such as the integration of nanostructured materials like metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into membranes. These hybrid systems enhance catalytic degradation and offer filtration capabilities, providing a dual advantage over free enzymes or powdered nanomaterials. Enzyme-based membranes enhance enzyme stability, reusability, and operational convenience—particularly in continuous-flow systems—while also capturing particulate contaminants. By exploring enzyme–MOF–membrane composites, we propose innovative solutions for OP remediation in civilian and military applications. This work presents innovative perspectives on enzyme-based membrane technologies, offering efficient, scalable, and environmentally sustainable methods for OP detoxification. Future research should focus on developing integrated, real-time monitoring technologies to further enhance the practicality and scalability of these systems. Schematic representation of an enzyme-based membrane system for OP degradation. The top section illustrates OP contamination from industrial and agricultural sources, leading to environmental damage. The central membrane, embedded with biocatalytic enzymes, facilitates the selective degradation of OPs into less toxic byproducts while allowing purified water to pass through. The bottom section depicts a restored aquatic ecosystem with improved water quality and biodiversity. This integrated enzymatic-membrane approach offers a sustainable and efficient strategy for OP remediation.