So you know the benefits and endless applications of these wonderful new nano-coatings, but how do they actually do the dirty work? Please read on to find out more about the science behind these cutting edge products. If you don't understand any of the terms then please refer to our TiO2 glossary.
So what is TiO2?
TiO2, (Titanium Dioxide) is a chemical made up from one titanium atom and two oxygen atoms, it is used as a white pigment in many products such as paint, paper, inks and cosmetics. When TiO2 is ground to nano-sized particles it becomes a much more effective photocatalyst - breaking down unwanted chemicals.
Nano-sized TiO2 as a Self-cleaning Pollution Reducer
Ultra fine (nano-sized) TiO2 acts as photocatalyst - accelerating reactions between pollutants and oxygen & water in the air. This is done with the aid of UV light; hence photocatalyst, where a catalyst is a substance that speeds up a reaction (see diagram). When incorporated into coatings, it essentially neutralises pollutants and dirt, resulting in depolluting, self-cleaning surfaces. Natural sunlight comprises more than sufficient UV energy to initiate photocatalysis.
Self-cleaning is achieved by oxidation of contaminants to harmless gases or smaller molecules which are then easily removed by rainfall.
Depollution - Pollutants, such as oxides of nitrogen and sulphur present in vehicle exhaust are converted into harmless molecules once they come in contact with the surface. Toxic and unpleasant odours such as VOC's are also neutralised.
Want to know more?
Hopefully that's brought you up to speed with the science behind these coatings, if you want to know more of nitty-gritty chemistry then have a look at the TiO2 Chemistry Page or maybe you just want to see some proof?
