Making waves: Electroporation and beyond: Rethinking virus inactivation mechanisms in electric field treatment

Electric field treatment (EFT) is a promising alternative to conventional chemical disinfection. Its microbial inactivation ability is primarily attributed to electroporation, a physical process that disrupts lipid membranes which minimizes formation of toxic disinfection byproducts. However, the application of EFT for virus inactivation remains limited, and both its efficacy and underlying mechanisms against viruses are still debated. This article examines the current literature on viral inactivation by EFT, highlighting additional mechanisms beyond electroporation, including protein and nucleic acid damage, thermal effects, and electrochemical oxidation. Key knowledge gaps are identified, particularly the lack of standardized reporting of electrical parameters and the absence of robust analytical platforms capable of isolating and quantifying the contribution of individual mechanisms. Finally, potential future research directions are proposed to advance mechanistic understanding and optimize EFT for viral control.