Photocatalytic Concrete
Admixture: Enhancing
Concrete Performance
Photocatalytic concrete admixture is an innovative material
that can significantly improve the durability, maintenance, and
environmental impact of concrete structures.
by Rajat Maury
Introduction to
Photocatalytic Concrete
Admixture
1 Photocatalytic 2 Self-Cleaning Surfaces
Mechanism
The admixture contains The photocatalytic process
titanium dioxide (TiO2) helps concrete surfaces
particles that catalyze stay cleaner for longer,
reactions when exposed to reducing maintenance
UV light, breaking down requirements.
organic compounds.
3 Air Purification
The admixture can also help improve air quality by breaking
down airborne pollutants and odors.
Mechanism of Photocatalytic Reactions in Concrete
Decomposition
Activation
The organic pollutants are converted into harmless byproducts like
UV light excites electrons in the TiO2 particles, creating electron-hole pairs. carbon dioxide and water.
1 2 3
Oxidation
The electron-hole pairs undergo redox reactions, generating reactive
oxygen species that break down organic matter.
Benefits of Photocatalytic Concrete Admixture
Air Purification Self-Cleaning Increased Durability
The photocatalytic process helps Organic stains and dirt are The photocatalytic reactions help
break down airborne pollutants, continuously broken down, protect the concrete from
improving air quality around the keeping the concrete surface weathering and degradation,
structure. looking cleaner for longer. extending its lifespan.
Improved Air Quality and Self-
Cleaning Properties
Air Purification
The photocatalytic process breaks down airborne pollutants, improving air quality around the structure.
Self-Cleaning
Organic stains and dirt are continuously broken down, keeping the concrete surface looking cleaner.
UV Activation
The photocatalytic reactions are initiated by exposure to UV light, which excites the TiO2 particles.
Reduced Maintenance and Increased Durability
Photocatalytic Protection Reduced Maintenance Increased Lifespan
The TiO2 particles in the admixture Self-cleaning properties mean less The enhanced durability of
help protect the concrete from frequent cleaning and upkeep required photocatalytic concrete can extend the
weathering and degradation. for the concrete surface. overall lifespan of the structure.
Application and Incorporation of the Admixture
Easy Incorporation Versatile Application Environmental Benefits
The admixture can be simply Photocatalytic concrete can be
added to the concrete mix used for a wide range of The air purification and self-
during the batching process. construction projects, from cleaning properties make
buildings to infrastructure. photocatalytic concrete an eco-
friendly choice.
Case Studies and Real-
World Implementations
Reduced Maintenance A school in Japan saw a 30%
reduction in cleaning costs
after using photocatalytic
concrete.
Improved Air Quality A hospital in Italy reported a
20% decrease in nitrogen
oxide levels around the
building.
Increased Durability A highway overpass in the
Netherlands maintained its
original appearance for over
15 years.
