SBIR-STTR Award

The objective of this project is to determine whether the use of titanium dioxide to coat ceramic and metal substrates is an effective way to use its photocatalytic properties for oxidation of air pollutants produced by combustion of hydrocarbons. Alternative methods for applying titanium to surfaces are being investigated to determine the appropriate method of application, half-life of the coating, and photoactivity associated with each coating method. This is a Phase I award based on a proposal submitted in response to NSF 93-18, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program Solicitation. Results are expected to provide the basis for use of this technology in reducing pollution of air in air circulating systems of homes, commercial buildings and airplanes.

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project seeks to develop novel materials for use in photocatalytic destruction of organic contaminents in air, water and on surfaces. The research objectives are to develop non-oxidizable ambient-temperature binders for photocatalytic TiO2; enhance destruction rates of target compounds using tailored surface coatings; demonstrate commercially useful self-cleaning, biocidal clear coats; and show that photocatalytic reactions produce no undesirable byproducts. Target applications of the technology include treatment of industrial air emissions, destruction of chlorinated organics in drinking water, and self-cleaning, mildewcidal and bactericidal architectural paints and clear coats. Spin-off applications that are envisioned include clean rooms for semiconductor manufacturing and control of fruit ripening.