APPLICATION OF ENGINEERED NANOPARTICLES IN THE DEGRADATION OF BIOMEDICAL WASTE: A REVIEW

Biomedical waste (BMW) is a critical global concern due to its infectious, hazardous, and non-biodegradable nature. Traditional disposal methods like incineration and landfilling have proven inadequate due to their environmental and health hazards. In recent years, nanotechnology—particularly engineered nanoparticles (ENPs)—has emerged as a promising tool for the efficient degradation and detoxification of biomedical waste. This review explores the applications of various ENPs in biomedical waste degradation, focusing on their mechanisms, efficiency, challenges, and future directions. Key Words: Biomedical waste, Engineered nanoparticle (ENP), Photocatalytic degradation