In a recent breakthrough, scientists have developed a new photocatalyst that could revolutionize mercury (Hg) removal from wastewater. This photocatalyst has an unprecedented conversion efficiency of up to 99.7%, and could potentially be used in commercial wastewater treatment plants. The new photocatalyst was developed with a combination of two different metals, gold and palladium, along with a unique nanostructure that increases its surface area for effective absorption of light. This combination of metals and nanostructure enables the photocatalyst to create reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are able to break down Hg in wastewater into harmless by-products. The scientists hope that this new photocatalyst will reduce the risk of Hg contamination in water sources and help protect human health.

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source: Phys.org