This comprehensive review explores biomass-derived activated carbon supported silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a sustainable solution for water disinfection. Water contamination from pathogens, organic pollutants, and heavy metals poses significant health risks globally, emphasizing the need for effective, affordable treatment technologies. AgNPs exhibit potent antimicrobial properties, especially at the nanoscale, but face challenges such as stability, environmental toxicity, and leaching. Supporting AgNPs on biomass-derived activated carbon—obtained from agricultural waste, forestry residues, and other biomass sources—enhances stability, dispersibility, and reusability while aligning with green chemistry principles. The synthesis methods, including chemical reduction and green approaches, produce uniform, well-dispersed nanoparticles anchored onto porous carbon supports, resulting in efficient microbial inactivation through mechanisms like silver ion release, reactive oxygen species generation, and membrane disruption. The porous structure facilitates pollutant adsorption, concentrating microbes near active silver sites. Laboratory studies demonstrate rapid bactericidal and virucidal effects, high reusability, and minimal silver leaching. However, challenges such as scaling synthesis, long-term stability, and environmental safety remain. Future directions involve optimizing immobilization techniques, developing eco-friendly synthesis routes, and integrating these nanocomposites into multifunctional water treatment systems. Biomass-supported AgNPs hold promise for sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient water sanitation, especially in resource-limited settings, contributing to global health and environmental sustainability. • Biomass-derived activated carbon offers a sustainable, eco-friendly support for silver nanoparticles. • Silver nanoparticles exhibit potent antimicrobial mechanisms, including membrane disruption and ROS generation. • Nanocomposite show high efficacy against bacteria, viruses, and fungi in water treatment. • Environmental concerns include silver leaching and toxicity, requiring stability and safety measures. • Future challenges focus on scaling synthesis, reducing leaching, and developing multifunctional, sustainable water treatment systems.
Tessema et al. (Fri,) studied this question.