Biosensores y nuevas tecnologías de tratamiento de aguas residuales para contaminantes emergentes

Abstract

This study addresses the investigation of emerging contaminants (CECs), a new category of anthropogenic substances such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, synthetic hormones, antibiotics, and microplastics, whose presence in wastewater represents a growing risk to human health and ecosystems. These compounds, not efficiently removed by conventional treatment systems, persist in effluents and aquatic environments. Based on an extensive review of recent scientific literature, emerging treatment technologies applied to the elimination of these contaminants are analyzed, including Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs), membrane separation, and microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), highlighting their efficiency, limitations, and integration potential. Likewise, the use of biosensors is explored as an innovative tool for the detection and monitoring of emerging contaminants due to their sensitivity, speed, and real-time applicability. The results of the analysis indicate that the combination of advanced technologies with biotechnological monitoring tools can significantly enhance the efficiency of CEC removal and detection, driving the development of more integrated and efficient treatment models.