TiO₂ Photocatalytic Self-Cleaning Coating
topic
Anatase TiO₂ nanoparticles (5–25 nm, bandgap 3.2 eV) are applied via sol-gel or aqueous dispersion (1–3% TiO₂) with silane coupling agents (0.5–1.5%) onto cotton or polyester at 1–3 g/m² add-on, cured at 100–150°C. Under UV irradiation (>3.0 eV, >365 nm), electron-hole pairs generate ROS (•OH, O₂•⁻) that degrade adsorbed organic stains, bacteria, and VOCs within 2–8 hours. Contact angle reduces from 80° to below 10° (superhydrophilic) aiding soil washoff. Visible-light activation achieved by N, C, or Ag doping at 0.1–1.0 at%. Wash durability improves to 30–50 cycles with silica binder matrix. Applications include hospital curtains, self-cleaning awnings, and air-purifying wall textiles.
Role
Enables passive, light-activated self-cleaning and air-purifying textile surfaces for healthcare environments, reducing hospital-acquired infection risk and maintenance costs without continuous chemical antimicrobial reapplication.