Application of novel high LRV photocatalytic paint at Stalida Tunnel

By project CLEAN

Published on 31 December 2018

Greece

About this good practice

Photocatalysis is an effective Advanced Oxidation Process (AOP) considered as an innovative, effective, economic and promising solution to resolve the problem of poor air quality. The existing developed materials (normally TiO2 based photocatalytic coatings) are effectively suitable only for outdoor applications due to the large bandgap of TiO2 ( >3.0 ev) and subsequently its activation by UV light only. In the case of underground constructions, there is a need to integrate effective photocatalytic materials that may operate under visible light (indoor like) illumination.
The demand by tunnels constructors and operators for air quality and energy saving are tackled by the development of novel photocatalytic paint, a safe and inexpensive way to retain indoor and outdoor living environments clean.
The eco-friendly innovative photocatalytic material developed at FORTH (TCM-1) and patented in Greece, Europe and China, consists of TiO2 nanoparticles in powder form doped with transition metals. Tests from independent National and International bodies showed enhanced de-pollution functionalities. Measurements by the unique European certiﬁcation body based at the European INTROTRON Joint Research Centre (JRC) in ISPRA, Italy, showed that TiO2 powder mixed in both calcareous and cementitious bases demonstrate a unique ability for a most eﬃcient degradation of formaldehyde and NOx.

Resources needed

This first-step approach initiative will require an estimated capital investment of € 500.000, four full-time and two contract-based personnel, will complete the pilot scale production line in less than 6 months and promote an intensive marketing campaign of two years both within Greece and abroad.

Evidence of success

There was substantial saving in energy and the lighting units used resulting from the application of the TCM-1. Four years later, the qualitative characteristics of the applied paint are remained unchanged with the passing car drivers experiencing a clean and healthy environment while the Region of Crete is saving more than 57000 Euro per year in lighting expenses due to highly reduced pollutants degradation of the interior surfaces and retention of the lighting levels at the original specified

Potential for learning or transfer

This high-tech, environmentally-friendly photocatalytic material (active under artificial and natural light), provides unique attributes that clean and disinfect the air we breathe.
The Photocatalytic material “TCM-1” are:
• Are Safe and ideal for Indoor and Outdoor Applications
• Are activated by UV and Visible / diffused (day-night) Lighting
• Can degrade different inorganic pollutants such as NOx without dangerous by-products and improve the environment
• Can degrade different Volatile Organic Compounds such as aldehydes (formaldehyde) and BTEX (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylene, Xylene) without dangerous by-product formation
• Can effectively Inactivate Bacteria, Microbes and Phages (air and water-borne) and lead to 99% disinfection
• Are compatible with inorganic and selected organic matrices
• Are compatible with cement and ceramic matrices
• May lead up to 70% reduce of noxious emissions
• Reduce environmental contaminations and to clear surface of various material