Cu-TiO2/SiO2 photocatalysts for concrete-based building materials: Self-cleaning and air de-pollution performance

• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2021.125419
• Publication Date: 2021-11-10T00:21:26Z
• Authors: S. Khannyra; M.J. Mosquera; M. Addou; M.L.A. Gil
• Keywords: Methylene blue; Degradation; Visible spectrum

As a consequence of human activities, today, we are exposed to high pollution levels that cause building materials damage and many diseases. The application TiO2 as coating on has proven the efficiency self-cleaning air de-pollution. However, its performance is limited due absorption being exclusively located at UV light. In this study, Cu-TiO2 photocatalysts were integrated into silica sol–gel synthesis manufacture new long-lasting term coatings with purification properties for concrete-based materials. enhancement photoactivity by incorporating Cu network been clearly demonstrated. de-polluting assessed using methylene blue (MB), soot NO, respectively, indicating presence promotes performance. For low doping levels, increasing copper loading, increased. highest was obtained photocatalyst containing 5% copper, which shows maximum destruction 95% 50% within 60 min 168 h irradiation, respectively. higher loading led decrease in performance, reaching total degradation MB 90% 45% after sample 15% loading.