TiO2-based nanomaterials assisted photocatalytic treatment for virus inactivation: perspectives and applications

•The urgency of limiting spread of viruses and bacteria moves towards new approaches.•Photocatalytic nanomaterials can be a valuable alternative to chemical disinfectants.•Potential of TiO2-based photocatalysis for viral disinfection is critically revised.•Applications of TiO2-based disinfection in air, water and surface are overviewed.