A critical review on the properties and applications of bulk micro and nanobubbles for the degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater treatment

Abstract

The presence of persistent organic pollutants in wastewater streams has presented significant challenges towards their removal. In the recent decade, bulk micro (1–100 μm) and nanobubble (50–150 nm) (MNB) technology has exhibited technological advancements via integration of MNB technology in degrading organic pollutants from wastewater streams. The present review critically analyses the physico-chemical properties such as stability, zeta potential, mass transfer rates, rising velocity and size distribution of MNBs. The paradigm shift from conventional wastewater treatment to more sustainable solution is initiated by the production of OH− ions and free radicals for the degradation of organic pollutants by the MNB technology. Applications of MNBs are also explored in various wastewater treatment processes such as floatation, membrane cleaning, adsorption, aeration, and advanced oxidation processes. Future researches highlighting the challenges in the development of efficient and robust MNB technology and its real-time applications have also been highlighted. It is anticipated that MNBs could be a sustainable and economic solution for wastewater treatment. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.