Mechanistic insight into the disinfection of Salmonella sp. by sun-light assisted sonophotocatalysis using doped ZnO nanoparticles

•SPC disinfection of Salmonella sp. using Fe-doped ZnO nanoparticles is reported.•Microscopic evaluations suggested detrimental effects on the bacterial membrane.•DNA, protein and ion leakage assay confirmed the cell damage during SPC.•Resazurin assay suggested the hindrance of metabolic activity of SPC treated cells.•SPC treated water promoted the germination of Zea mays compared to controls.