Nanotechnology in manufacturing paints for eco-efficient buildings

Abstract: The addition of a photocatalyst provides decontamination properties to a paint. It is capable of continuously oxidizing both organic and inorganic pollutants and microorganisms under the influence of light during its lifetime. Photocatalytic paints are useful for degrading air pollutants, reducing the costs of maintenance of the exterior aspect and sterilizing the environment. TiO 2 is by far the most widely used photocatalyst, but is only active under UV (e.g., solar) irradiation, thus limiting its applicability. In this sense, in order to use photocatalytic paints also in indoor environments, new photocatalysts with a higher activity under visible irradiation is needed. Aspects such as the formation of potentially harmful by-products should also be considered in order to keep the purifying benefits of photocatalytic paints.