Photo-Catalysis is defined as "acceleration by the presence of as catalyst". A catalyst does not change in itself or is consumed in the chemical reaction.
Chlorophyll of plants is a type of photocatalyst. Photocatalysis compared to photosynthesis: chlorophyll captures sunlight to turn water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose, photocatalysis creates a strong oxidation agent to breakdown any organic matter to carbon dioxide and water in the presence of a photocatalyst, plus the UV rays from either the sun or an artificial light source (such as fluorescent lights).
Mechanism
When photocatalyst titanium dioxide (TiO2) absorbs Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or an illuminated light source (fluorescent lamps), it will produce pairs of electrons and holes. The electron of the valence band of titanium dioxide becomes excited when illuminated by light. The excess energy of this excited electron promotes the electron to the conduction band of titanium dioxide thereby creating the negative-electron (e-) and positive-hole (h+) pair. This stage is referred to as the semiconductor's "photo-excitation " state. The energy difference between the valence band and the conduction band is known as the ' Band Gap '. Wavelength of the light necessary for photo-excitation is: 1240 (Planck's constant, h) / 3.2 ev (band gap energy) = 388 nm
The positive-hole of titanium dioxide breaks apart the water molecule to form hydrogen gas and hydroxyl radical. The negative-electron reacts with oxygen molecule to form a super oxide anion. This cycle continues when light is available.
Photocatalytic Oxidation
The most powerful advanced oxidation systems are based on the generation of hydroxyl radicals. The hydroxyl radical is an extremely powerful oxidation agent, second only to Fluorine in power (2.23 in Relative Oxidizing Power). Following is a listing of common chemical oxidants, placed in the order of their oxidizing strength:
Compound
Oxidation Potential (volts)
Hydroxyl Radical
2.8
Sulfate Radical
2.6
Ozone
2.1
Hydrogen Peroxide
1.8
Permanganate
1.7
Chlorine Dioxide
1.5
Chlorine
1.4
Oxygen
1.2
Bromine
1.1
Iodine
0.76
Utilizing the strong oxidation strength of hydroxyl radical, photocatalytic oxidation can effectively disinfect, deodorize, and purify air, water, and different surface areas.
Super-Hydrophilic
When the surface of photocatalytic film is exposed to light, the contact angle of the photocatalyst surface with water is reduced gradually. After enough exposure to light, the surface reaches super-hydrophilic. In other words, it does not repel water at all, so water cannot exist in the shape of a drop, but spreads flatly on the surface of the substrate: water takes the form of a highly uniform thin film, which behaves optically like a clear sheet of glass.
The hydrophilic nature of titanium dioxide, coupled with the gravity, will enable the dust particles to be swept away following the water stream, thus making the product self-cleaning.
Why is Green Quest photocatalyst treatment semi-permanent?
Although it is originally water-soluble, it dries quickly after application and becomes water-insoluble. It also becomes as hard as a 4H pencil in ten to fourteen days after application. It does not come off unless the surface is polished. Even a bathroom can be used immediately after application. Because titanium oxide is merely a catalyst and is not changed, its effect is semi-permanent except when walls and ceilings are repainted, or if a strong cleaning agent is used.
How long does Green Quest photocatalyst treatment last after application?
Since photocatalyst TiO2 is only acting as semi-conductor catalyst, it is not consumed during the oxidation process, therefore, completing a long lasting oxidation cycle. Green Quest is now offering a five years product and services warranty.
Is Green Quest photocatalyst treatment safe?
Yes , it will be no harm of direct touching the material or having direct contact with it after its drying time. The material is totally safe and the titanium dioxide used is FDA approved (refer to EPA certified toxicity lab report).
Where can Green Quest photocatalyst treatments be applied?
Green Quest provides photocatalyst surface coating for long-lasting effects of deodorization, sterilization, and anti-soiling purposes. Using our specialized spray-coating equipments, a fine mist of photocatalyst can be applied on different types of surface materials achieving a guaranteed result.
In Automobiles, Building Exteriors Photocatalyst can deodorize the interior and gives the driver and passengers a more pleasant driving experience. Odors embedded in the carpet and seats will eventually be decomposed and rid the car these unpleasant odors.
Company Cars Public transportation (buses, trains, airplanes, taxis) Rental cars Limousines
Green Quest's Nano-TiO2 Photocatalyst can be applied on the exterior of a building to treat and prevent unsightly damages caused by acid rain, moisture, and smog. It cuts down on the overall maintenance cost and time.
Hotels and motels High-rise buildings Apartments Condos Commercial business complexes
Green Quest's Nano-TiO2 Photocatalyst decomposes odor molecules caused by tobacco smoke, pets, chemicals in detergents, urine and fecal matters. Photocatalyst will continuously deodorize your living space and eliminates the sources of your malodors.
Restaurant Public restrooms Hotel and motel rooms Senior Centers Shops and animal hospitals
With a constant amount of light provided, Green Quest's Nano-TiO2 photocatalyst can control and prevent the growth of bacteria, germ, and mold. Any harmful bacteria and germ would be killed and eventually be decomposed in this sterilized condition.
Hospital Schools Public Restrooms Restaurant Day-Care centers
How does Green Quest photocatalyst treatment compare to traditional air purification system?
HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arresting) Filter Most widely known method for purifying air. Depending on the filter size, it can clean up to 99.99% of particulate in the air with proper ventilation. They are not effective on treating mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi.
Electrostatic Filtration Another filtration system with a negatively charged surface is used to attract particulates. In comparison to most HEPA systems it is more effective in trapping smaller micron particulates and is effective in clearing smoke from the air. Low levels of ozone may be produced which can neutralize most mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi that comes in contact with the filter.
Ionization Also uses a negatively charged surface to produce and expel an abundance of negative ions and cause suspended particles to cling to walls, floors, and other surfaces . Most ionizes are effective in settling dust and particulates out of our breathing space.
Ozone Ozone is a very powerful oxidizer that will neutralize odors, mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi. This technology is commonly used in flood and fire restoration. Ozone is found to be effective because it works on the problem at the source and air does not have to be pulled through the unit for treatment.
UV Germicidal Lamps Commonly used for disinfectant purposes. This technology is effective in sterilizing air and surfaces that come in contact with the UV light. UV has been proven in both air and water applications to inactivate bacteria and viruses to prevent them from reproducing.
Photocatalysis Using light to react with a catalyst resulting in oxidation. This is found to be effective in destroying mold, mildew, bacteria, other fungi, dust mites, and many odors. This technology is produced with an Ozone/UV lamp set in a variety of combinations. When this type of photocatalysis is combined with the natural humidity in indoor air, it creates hydroxyl radicals and super oxide ions that are effective in combating bacteria, fungi and VOCs(volatile organic compounds). This method is also a pro-active approach that goes to the source for treatment.
Item
Hepa Filter
Electrostatic
Ozone
UV
Ionizer
Photocatalysis
Mold
Poor
Good
Good
Good
Poor
Excellent
Bacteria
Poor
Good
Good
Good
Poor
Excellent
Dust Mites
Poor
Poor
Poor
Good
Poor
Excellent
Gases
Poor
Poor
Good
Good
Poor
Excellent
Odors
Poor
Good
Good
Poor
Good
Excellent
Smoke
Good
Good
Good
Poor
Excellent
Good
VOCs
Poor
Poor
Good
Good
Poor
Excellent
Pet Dander
Good
Good
Good
Good
Good
Excellent
What factors may influence the efficiency of Green Quest photocatalyst treatment?
Light and airflow will have a remarkable influence over the reaction of the photocatalyst. Both factors are needed to maintain the coating effectiveness all the time. From that, the better airflow you have (air circulation which can be obtained by using an ordinary fan or the normal air movement from central air) and the longer light times, the better the results will be. What is Indoor Air Pollution?
Research indicates that people spend approximately 80 ~ 90 percent of their time indoors, where they are exposed to polluted indoor air that may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and even lung cancer or other malignancies. Recent studies reveal that bacteria, molds and house dust mites are breeding inside carpets and air conditioners and can be airborne by dust particles. Paints, varnishes, harmful chemical fibers and pressed wood products, which are most commonly used in household decoration, may emit formaldehyde, benzene and other hazardous and carcinogenic organic chemicals -- all these as well as unwholesome matters produced in the metabolism of human bodies and the ammonia inside toilets have made the air within homes and buildings more seriously polluted than the outdoor air.
People may experience one or more of the following reactions when exposed to indoor air pollution:
Allergic Reactions Some common signs and symptoms are: · Watery eyes · Runny nose and sneezing · Nasal congestion · Itching · Coughing · Wheezing and difficulty breathing · Headaches · Fatigue
Infectious Reactions
Caused by bacteria and viruses, such as influenza, measles, chicken pox, and tuberculosis. Most infectious diseases pass from person to person through physical contact. Crowded conditions with poor air circulation can promote the spread of infectious diseases. Some bacteria and viruses thrive in buildings and circulate through indoor ventilation systems that have poor filtration systems in place or are not serviced regularly.
Toxic Reactions
Some fungi are known to produce toxic substances as a by-product of their metabolism, which can cause a variety of adverse health effects. Short-term symptoms can include dermatitis, respiratory irritation, headaches and fatigue. Long-term health effects can include cancer, damage to the central nervous system, and suppression of the immune system. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranks poor indoor air quality among the top five environmental risks to public health. Poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and pneumonitis. In addition, it can cause headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue. People who already have respiratory diseases are at greater risks.
What is SickBuilding Syndrome?
The term " sick building syndrome " (SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The following have been cited causes of or contributing factors to sick building syndrome:
1. Inadequate ventilation In an effort to achieve acceptable Indoor Air Quality or IAQ while minimizing energy consumption, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recently revised its ventilation standard to provide a minimum of 15 cfm of outdoor air per person (20 cfm/person in office spaces). Up to 60 cfm/person may be required in some spaces (such as smoking lounges) depending on the activities that normally occur in that space.
2. Chemical contaminants from indoors sources Most indoor air pollution comes from sources inside the building. For example, adhesives, carpeting, upholstery, manufactured wood products, copy machines, pesticides, and cleaning agents may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde. Environmental tobacco smoke contributes high levels of VOCs, other toxic compounds, and repairable particulate matter. Research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known carcinogens. Low to moderate levels of multiple VOCs may also produce acute reactions. Combustion products such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, as well as respirable particles, can come from unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces and gas stoves.
3. Chemical contaminants from outdoor sources The outdoor air that enters a building can be a source of indoor air pollution. For example, pollutants from motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, and building exhausts (e.g., bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located air intake vents, windows, doors, and other openings. In addition, combustion products and pollution can enter a building from a nearby garage, traffic from a busy street or highway, or a car that is idling.
4. Biological contaminants Bacteria, molds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants. These contaminants may breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pans, or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, carpeting, or insulation. Physical symptoms related to biological contamination include coughing, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion.
Other Significant Usages for Photocatalysis
1. Anti-Bacterial Effect
Photocatalyst does not only kill bacteria cells, but also decompose the cell itself. The titanium dioxide photocatalyst has been found to be more effective than any other antibacterial agent, because the photocatalytic reaction works even when there are cells covering the surface and while the bacteria are actively propagating. The end toxin produced at the death of cell is also expected to be decomposed by photocatalytic action. Titanium dioxide does not deteriorate and it shows a long-term anti-bacterial effect. Generally speaking, disinfections by titanium oxide is three times stronger than chlorine, and 1.5 times stronger than ozone.
2. Deodorizing Effect
On the deodorizing application, the hydroxyl radicals accelerate the breakdown of any Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs by destroying the molecular bonds. This will help combine the organic gases to form a single molecule that is not harmful to humans thus enhance the air cleaning efficiency. Some of the examples of odor molecules are: Tobacco odor, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide, urine and fecal odor, gasoline, and many other hydro carbon molecules in the atmosphere.
Air purifier with Ti02 can prevent smoke and soil, pollen, bacteria, virus and harmful gas as well as seize the free bacteria in the air by a filtering percentage of 99.9% with the help of the highly oxidizing effect of photocatalyst (Ti02).
3. Air Purifying Effect
The photocatalytic reactivity of titanium oxides can be applied for the reduction or elimination of polluted compounds in air such as NOx, cigarette smoke, as well as volatile compounds arising from various construction materials. Also, high photocatalytic reactivity can be applied to protect lamp-houses and walls in tunneling, as well as to prevent white tents from becoming sooty and dark. Atmospheric constituents such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and CFC substitutes, greenhouse gases, and nitrogenous and sulfurous compounds undergo photochemical reactions either directly or indirectly in the presence of sunlight. In these polluted areas, the pollutants can eventually be removed.
4. Anti fogging, Self-Cleaning
Most of the exterior walls of buildings become soiled from automotive exhaust fumes, which contain oily components. When the original building materials are coated with a photocatalyst, a protective film of titanium provides the self-cleaning building by becoming antistatic, super oxidative, and hydrophilic. The hydrocarbon from automotive exhaust is oxidized and the dirt on the walls washes away with rainfall, keeping the building exterior clean at all times.
5. Water Purification
Photocatalyst coupled with UV lights can oxidize organic pollutants into nontoxic materials. CO2 and water and can disinfect certain bacteria. This technology is very effective at removing further hazardous organic compounds (TOCs) and at killing a variety of bacteria and some viruses in the secondary wastewater treatment. Pilot projects demonstrated that photocatalytic detoxification systems could effectively kill fecal coli form bacteria in secondary wastewater treatment.
1. What is titanium dioxide? What
is a photo catalyst?
Titanium
dioxide (TiO2) is an anti-microbial metal created by a process which
crystallizes titanic iron ore into a nano liquid form. When exposed to UV
light in the sub 400 range, TiO2 becomes a photo catalyst oxidizer (PCO) as
well which creates hydroxyl radicals and superoxide ions which are two times
stronger disinfectants than chlorine and 1.5 times stronger a disinfectant than
ozone. TiO2 is safe and widely used in many household products such as
toothpaste, food, and teeth whitening solutions. The advent of nano
technology, in other words making tiny particles out of metals that can
penetrate most surfaces, has lead to several Japanese patents utilizing this
nano TiO-2 photocatalytic solution which has many wide ranging applications and
has experienced years of successful use in the Japanese marketplace. For
instance the government uses this solution in some public bathrooms to keep
them smelling fresh and more importantly maintenance free. TiO2 coatings are
applied to some highway guard rails to keep them looking new amidst constant
bombardment from hydrocarbons and VOC's from vehicle exhaust. The outside of
some Japanese high rises are treated with TiO2 solution to make the glass and
metal maintenance free, no more need to clean the windows, they resist water
and grime. TiO2 coatings are also widely used in the healthcare,
food, janitorial, auto, and construction business. Many
homeowners treat their mini-blinds, windows, furniture, bathrooms,
showers, carpets, flooring, etc with similar TiO2 solutions to reap the
benefits of VOC free, clean, fresh indoor air on top of the huge benefit of
maintenance free surfaces. When microorganisms, smog, viruses, VOC, or any
organic material comes in contact with the TiO2 treated surface, it also
becomes oxidized. Even fabrics treated with this revolutionary
substance will not retain odors. Car interiors treated with Nano TiO2, even
when submitted to second hand smoke from several people for prolonged periods
of time, will not retain any tobacco odor.
2. Are TiO2 coating harmless to
humans? Is it harmless to pets?
Nano TiO2 liquid is completely harmless
to human bodies and is actually used widely as a food additive. (View test results) Nano TiO2 liquid is made
with a patented binding process that makes it possible for this liquid to
penetrate and form a permanent bond with surfaces. It is not for human
consumption in this nano liquid form of course. However, after it dries
to form a film on a substance, it becomes one with the surface. Nano TiO2
liquid should not be applied directly on pets or animals. It can and should be
used however to keep pet bedding from retaining odors.
3. After applied, does it produce
any odor? No, it does not have any odor. If
applied to surfaces with for instance tobacco odors, those odors will go away.
4. Does this Nano TiO2 liquidhave a shelf life? Basically, there is no shelf life
. This solution should be stored in a dark, cool environment long
term however.
5. How is this
Nano TiO2 liquid applied? It can be brushed or sprayed onto
surfaces. When applied to fabrics via spray, a brush should be used to work the
solution into the fabric.
6. After it is applied, how long does it
last?
The Titanium crystals in Nano TiO2
liquid form bonds that are semi-permanent. In case of some materials that
may undergo a physical peeling off by some force (such as carpets, mats, and
clothing), it is recommended to reapply the solution every 3 years.
Generally speaking TiO-2 PCO Solution has a service life of 5-10 years or
even longer on some surfaces that do not have a lot of contact.
Basically, our solution will out-live many materials such as curtains, carpets,
shingles,etc.
7. Does Nano TiO2 liquidcause any fabric discoloration or any streaking effects on solid
surfaces?
Nano TiO2
liquid can be applied to fabrics, curtains, carpets, woods, tiles, ceramics,
glass, even metal and painted surfaces. If the surface is exposed to direct
sunlight, do not apply to black or very dark colored surfaces as the oxidation
process can remove some pigments from surfaces. Indoor light is not strong
enough to cause this oxidative reaction on fabrics and surfaces however. When
spraying any surface with Nano TiO2 liquid, it is always advisable to spray a
small area first (test area) then allow to dry to make sure the solution does
not react with the surface. Do not apply Nano TiO2 liquid to leather, silk, or
fine garments. Once you are confident that the fabric or material can safely be
treated, spray the surface until it is completely moistened then brush in with
any type of brush to work the Nano TiO2 liquid into the fabric. If applied to
non fabric surfaces (plastic, metal, glass, etc) the initial coat will leave a
fine milky residue. Allow the area to completely dry then wait several
hours and wipe the area with a damp cloth.
8. How long does it take it to dry?
A film will have formed once the liquid
has completely disappeared. The time needed for this to occur
(evaporation time) will be varies with temperature, wind, and film
thickness. Generally speaking, it only takes 5-15 minutes to dry on solid
surfaces and around 1 hour or longer to dry on fabrics. Use a blow dryer to
speed up the drying process as well as aid with the bonding
process.
9.
How long does Nano TiO2 liquidhave be exposed to light before it
released oxidizers into the air to get rid of indoor air pollution?
Studies have
shown that this Nano TiO2 liquid will actively begin creating hydroxyl radicals
and superoxide ions when exposed to ultraviolet rays in the sub 400nm
range. Regular house lights will even activate the TiO2's disinfectant
effect to a minor extent, especially florescent type lamps such as those found
in many kitchens. However it's direct sunlight, UV radiation, and black lights
(UVA) that create the most oxidizers Hydroxyl radicals and superoxide
ions do not give off a strong beech like ozone does but they do aggressively go
after odors and air pollution better than ozone or chlorine.
10. Does Nano TiO2 liquid remove
odors from the air? From fabrics?
The
surface area of titanium dioxide per gram is about 300um (equivalent to that of
activated charcoal). When exposed to light, Nano TiO2 liquid will
create -OH (hydroxyl radical) and O- (super oxide ions) which will decompose
the substances which are creating the odor. The principal difference between
titanium dioxide and other odor adsorbing substances including activated
carbons is that titanium dioxide will repeats this disinfectant function
semi-permanently vs. activated carbon and other adsorbing substances such as
Zeolite which lose their effectiveness once they're full of absorbed
substances.
11.How does Nano TiO2 liquidprevent and remove contamination
from surfaces? The reason why airborne contaminants such as second
hand smoke, car exhaust, molds, VOC's, viruses, bacteria, etc cannot adhere to
surfaces treated with Nano TiO2 liquid is that they become oxidized by the
photo-catalytic oxidation and float away as harmless substances.
12. Why does Nano TiO2 liquid have
a sterilizing and anti-microbial effect?
The old standard for killing airborne
microorganisms has been strong UVC radiation. (Over 20,000 microwatt's of UVGI
per second) UVC germicidal radiation kills microbes by destroying their
DNA. However, some microorganism, anthrax most notably, have very
strong DNA coatings and can resist even 30,000 microwatt's of UVGI. Our
Nano TiO2 liquid works in a different way. Titanium dioxide decomposes
and destroys the cell membrane, not the DNA. Most microbes are single celled
organisms so they die quickly when any part of them comes in contact with a
coated surface. Accordingly, titanium dioxide even kills MRSA
(Staphylococcus Aureus) a major cause of hospital infections. Our TiO2
solution has also been proven to even kill other types of microbes that
are not even killed by antibiotics! (TiO2 is not selective on types of
microorganism it kills, it kills them all). For this reason, Japanese
hospitals have shown great anti-bacterial results with our particular patented
brand of TiO2 solution. In addition, our Nano TiO2 liquid decomposes
toxins that are discharged when microbes die (Verotoxins, Enterotoxins),
rendering them into harmless vapors.
13. Exactly what
types of odors will Nano TiO2 liquideliminate?
It will remove virtually all and any
type of odor from surfaces as treated surfaces become resistant to
microorganisms, mold, bacteria, viruses, smoke, odors, etc. It removes
odors from the air when a treated surface is exposed to certain light thus
creating the photocatalytic oxidative superoxide ion and hydroxyl effect.
14. Does
it work in cold environments such as freezers? Yes. Microbes that come
in contact with a treated surface will cease to exist.
15. Does Nano TiO2 liquid get rid
of cigarette odors from tar and nicotine that have penetrated surfaces?
Yes. If a second hand smoke contaminated
surface (second hand smoke is known to have over 400 known cancer causing
chemicals) is treated with TiO2 PCO Solution, the odor will soon disappear.
However, the discoloration caused by second hand smoke does not disappear. It
is therefore advisable to first wash smoke contaminated surfaces that show
discoloration before treatment.
16. How does the
intensity of light effect the ability of this Nano TiO2 liquid to create
friendly oxidizers which purify the air?
As a characteristic of titanium dioxide,
it starts to produce friendly oxidizer en mass when exposed to
ultraviolet rays of 400nm range or lower. It is more affected by
the intensity of the ultraviolet rays rather than the intensity of light itself
per se. However, any air pollution, VOC, or odor that comes in contact with a
surface treated with Nano TiO2 liquid will become oxidized.
17. What are some of the more popular applications for Nano TiO2
liquid?
Bathrooms, floor tiles, sinks, showers,
car interiors, to remove and prevent tobacco odors, kitchen counters, furniture
and carpets (especially if you have pets), curtains, mini-blinds, windows
exposed to light, ceiling fans, car rims, white outdoor furniture,
house gutters (keep them mold free), concrete or brick that
you want to keep mold free, the list goes on and on.
18. Can Nano TiO2 be applied to
carpets?
Yes, and with great results! Carpets
treated with Nano TiO2 will resist not only odors and grime but also pests such
as fleas. Carpets will last much longer as well. For this reason, carpets and
fabrics in trains and pubic transportation are now being treated with Nano TiO2
in Japan with great results.