Abstract:The electrocatalytic-ozone (ECO) synergistic technology has emerged as a frontier and hotspot in water treatment research, owing to its advantages such as rapid reaction kinetics, high efficiency in organic compound mineralization, and relatively low operational costs. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in ECO technology, focusing on the following aspects: (1) Classification of operational modes, including electrocatalysis followed by ozonation, ozonation followed by electrocatalysis, and integrated electrocatalysis-ozone systems; (2) Key influencing factors, with emphasis on anode materials (e.g., nickel-antimony co-doped tin oxide, graphite felt, and activated carbon fiber), cathode materials (e.g., carbon-polytetrafluoroethylene composites and iron-nitrogen co-doped carbon nanotubes), and operational parameters such as current density, ozone concentration gradients, and solution pH; (3) Application scenarios, highlighting performance evaluations in complex aqueous matrices including antibiotic wastewater, dyeing wastewater, and landfill leachate. On the mechanistic level, this review analyzes the generation and roles of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in ECO systems, including hydroxyl radicals (·OH), their formation pathways, synergistic effects, and contributions to pollutant degradation. Typical contaminants such as phenol and ibuprofen are used as model compounds for detailed analysis of oxidation intermediates, bond cleavage patterns, and final mineralization. Additionally, the formation of chlorate and other by-products during electrocatalytic oxidation in chloride-containing wastewater is also addressed. Despite its promising potential, ECO technology faces several challenges in practical implementation. These include the long-term stability and broad-spectrum adaptability of electrode materials under complex water quality conditions, as well as the intricate interactions of multiple ROS that complicate reaction pathways and obscure regulatory mechanisms. Finally, this review outlines future research directions such as the development of advanced electrode materials, AI-assisted process optimization, integration with other treatment technologies, and comprehensive environmental-economic life cycle assessments. By consolidating recent research and mechanistic insights, this review aims to provide technical support for the large-scale application of ECO technology in water treatment engineering. Close-