Mechanochemical Fullerene Nanoencapsulation in Amino‐Functionalized ZIF‐12 for Visible‐Light Disinfection of Waterborne Viruses and Bacteria

Why It Matters

Visible‑light photocatalysis offers a low‑energy, chemical‑free route to neutralize waterborne pathogens, addressing urgent public‑health and environmental challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Mechanochemical route yields C60@ZIF‑12‑NH2 without solvents
• Visible light drives hydroxyl radical production for pathogen kill
• Complete bacteriophage P22 inactivation in saline water
• Effective E. coli removal from natural river water
• Synergistic amino‑C60 charge separation boosts photocatalysis

Pulse Analysis

Waterborne viruses and bacteria remain a leading cause of disease worldwide, prompting a search for treatment technologies that operate under ambient conditions without hazardous chemicals. Metal‑organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as versatile platforms because their tunable pores and active sites can be engineered for photocatalysis. The mechanochemical synthesis described in this study eliminates bulk solvents, reducing waste and production costs while delivering a uniform C₆₀‑loaded ZIF‑12 structure. This approach aligns with green chemistry principles and offers a pathway for large‑scale manufacturing of advanced disinfection materials.

The C₆₀@ZIF‑12‑NH₂ composite leverages the electron‑accepting properties of fullerene and the electron‑donating amino groups to create a rapid charge‑separation cascade under visible light. This synergy accelerates the formation of hydroxyl radicals, the primary oxidants that damage viral capsids and bacterial membranes. Laboratory tests demonstrated complete inactivation of bacteriophage P22 in saline conditions and significant reductions of E. coli and coliform counts in river water, all using sunlight‑equivalent illumination. Such performance under environmentally relevant matrices underscores the material’s robustness and potential for real‑world deployment.

For the water treatment sector, the technology promises a low‑energy, chemical‑free alternative to conventional chlorination or UV systems, which often require high energy inputs or generate harmful by‑products. The solvent‑free mechanochemical route simplifies supply chains and could be integrated into modular reactors for decentralized treatment of drinking water or wastewater. As regulatory pressure mounts for sustainable disinfection solutions, C₆₀@ZIF‑12‑NH₂ may catalyze a shift toward photocatalytic platforms that combine efficacy, safety, and scalability. Future work will likely focus on long‑term stability, regeneration cycles, and integration with existing infrastructure.