This thesis examines the feasibility of using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a viable disinfectant. It explores the opportunities and challenges of using AgNPs as an antimicrobial agent, and includes the latest research findings. It compares three kinds of AgNPs with regard to their antibacterial and antiviral effects; their sustainability in real water matrices; and their antiviral mechanisms. The outcome of this research equips the water industry with a better understanding of the capacity, extent and mechanisms of nanosilver disinfection. It is of interest to graduate students, academics and researchers in the area of nanotechnology and environmental engineering. 

Xu Yang was conferred his PhD degree by National University of Singapore(NUS) in 2015. Before joining NUS, he gained his B.Sc in Chemistry in Fudan University, P. R. China. He also spent two years as a lab assistant when he was an undergraduate. The experience greatly spurned his interest in nanomaterial and led him to pursue a PhD in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in NUS. Xu Yang is currently working as an engineer in a construction wastewater treatment and environmental consulting firm based in China.