This article reviews the current status and characteristics of disinfection technologies in the modern era, including physical, chemical, and integrated disinfection methods. It focuses on the latest research advances, advantages, and limitations of novel disinfection technologies, such as plasma-activated systems, photocatalytic oxidation, and synergistic chemical-physical or bio-chemical composite techniques. The study reveals that single disinfection methods often fail to meet the demands of complex environments, while integrated technologies demonstrate significant advantages in improving disinfection efficiency and environmental compatibility. However, challenges remain in terms of cost, standardization, and long-term safety. Future development of disinfection technologies should prioritize intelligent multi-technology integration, green and sustainable practices, targeted disinfection, personalized applications, and international standardization.
