Catalysts play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of AOPs. In photocatalysis, semiconductor materials like titanium dioxide (TiO2) are used to absorb UV light and generate electron-hole pairs, which then produce hydroxyl radicals. In Fenton processes, iron salts act as catalysts to decompose hydrogen peroxide into hydroxyl radicals. The choice and optimization of catalysts are critical for improving the reaction rates and overall efficacy of the AOPs.