Researchers have developed a novel form of titania and a process for fabrication of an environmentally-friendly product that purifies water. The innovative photocatalyst has a higher efficiency than current state of the art materials and is an ideal platform technology to complement existing product portfolios. A partnership opportunity exists to develop the technology in line with your organisational or industry requirements.
Market
The total world market for
nanoparticulate materials is
valued at almost $1 billion. This figure is forecast to reach
$11 billion by 2011. Energy, catalytic and structural
applications accounts for 12.7% and includes
photocatalysts. The water purification market is valued at
$20 billion per annum.
Technology
Titanium dioxide (TiO;) is a semiconductor that is
chemically activated by ultraviolet (UV) light.
Photocatalytic activity of TiO; is known and has been
exploited in various applications including sterilization,
sanitation and water remediation. Under the influence of
UV light, TiO; generates hydroxyl radicals highly reactive
free radicals and strong oxidants that degrade harmful
contaminants into CO; and water.
Nano-structured titanium dioxide
illuminated with ultraviolet light,
works like a semi-conductor. The
energised mineral breaks down
organic chemicals and hormones,
and destroys bacteria and viruses.
During the photocatalytic detoxification process, a large
area of reactive surface is required for the treatment of
large volumes of water. To date, applications of titanium
photocatalysts have utilized either thin coatings of
colloidal titanium or titanium nanotubes. These
technologies suffer from an inability to be filtered from
solution, or low surface area if applied as a film.
The material has an extremely high surface area, found to
be between 88 120 m;.g―F, an increase of 1.8 2.4 times
the surface area of current state of the art.
Key Advantages
Removes organic matter
from water or air i.e.
phenolics, pesticides, oil,
bacteria, viruses, moulds,
odours, dyes, etc.
Large, highly-reactive
surface area
Applied as either a
coating, powder or submicron
filter
Added chemicals required
Harmless by-products
CO; and water
Inexpensive
Self-cleaning
Long-life span
Non-toxic material
Short time-to-market
