Abstract:
Sonophotocatalysis involves the use of a combination of ultrasonic sound waves, ultraviolet radiation and a semiconductor photocatalyst to enhance a chemical reaction by the formation of free radicals in aqueous systems. Researchers have used sonophotocatalysis in a variety of investigations i.e. from water decontamination to direct pollutant degradation. This degradation process provides an excellent opportunity to reduce reaction time and the amount of reagents used without the need for extreme physical conditions. Given its advantages, the sonophotocatalysis process has a futuristic application from an engineering and fundamental aspect in commercial applications. A detailed search of published reports was done, analyzed and is presented in this session with respect to sonication, photocatalysis and advanced oxidation processes.
Biography:
Dr. Collin G. Joseph is a Chartered Chemist and Associate Professor in the Industrial Chemistry Program at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), where he began his academic career in 2003. He earned his PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nottingham, UK, in 2011. Over the years, he has received numerous Excellence and Service Awards, along with Gold Medals for research and innovation at MTE, ITEX, and PEREKA competitions. Dr. Joseph is a highly accomplished researcher and author, with expertise spanning Adsorbent Technology, Sonophotochemistry, and Ozone Chemistry. In 2014, he founded the Sonophotochemistry Research Group and continues to lead it to this day. From 2020 to 2023, he served as Head of the Industrial Chemistry Programme within UMS’s Faculty of Science and Natural Resources. His academic contributions have been widely recognized—he has been invited to review over 250 manuscripts for Tier 1 journals published by Elsevier B.V., Springer, and Taylor & Francis since 2007. He is also a frequent keynote speaker and session chair at international conferences, and research collaborator with local and international universities. Dr. Joseph sits on the Editorial Board of the Malaysian Journal of Chemistry (ISSN: 2550-1658), serves as Review Editor for Photocatalysis in Frontiers in Chemistry (ISSN: 2296-2646), and is a Guest Editor for Catalysts (ISSN: 2073-4344). As of July 15, 2025, his Google Scholar profile reflects an h-index of 22 with 2,944 citations. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry, he was awarded its highest honour—Fellowship status—in 2021. He is also a member of the American Chemical Society and Majlis Profesor Negara. Beyond academia, Dr. Joseph is deeply committed to community engagement. He serves as a lifelong volunteer and committee member with MERCY Malaysia and UMS4WDVC, participating in initiatives that support the well-being of Sabah’s communities.
