Catalytic PVDF Membranes for TTC: Mechanisms, Toxicity, and Life Cycle Perspectives

ABSTRACT

Membrane‐based processes offer an effective route for separating and decontaminating tetracycline (TTC) in wastewater, while also enabling evaluation of the environmental and toxicity profiles of these processes. When enhanced with stimuli‐responsive polymers and catalytic nanomaterials, modified membranes achieve improved selectivity, higher permeability, and greater resistance to fouling, enabling them to remove and degrade TTC even in complex contaminant mixtures, with improved lifespan and catalytic regeneration potential. Among reported systems, PVDF membranes decorated with β‐FeOOH/CoFe layered double hydroxides reach up to 97.5% TTC degradation through advanced oxidation pathways, whereas MXene–PVDF configurations deliver separation efficiencies as high as 99%. Ensuring complete mineralization remains essential for reducing ecological risks from transformation products. Furthermore, life cycle assessment (LCA) offers a holistic perspective on energy use, emissions, and material impacts throughout membrane manufacture and use. Together, these insights highlight the potential of recyclable, multifunctional membrane–catalyst hybrids to support low‐carbon, safe, and circular water treatment strategies for antibiotic‐contaminated systems.