ABOUT PHOTOCATALYSIS

Photocatalysis is the composite of ‘photo ‘(light) and ‘catalysis’, which is the process of a substance accelerating chemical reactions without itself being altered or consumed. Photocatalysis is most commonly seen in photosynthesis: Chlorophyll captures light, and in the presence of water and carbon dioxide, produces oxygen and glucose. OxiTitan captures light and in the presence of water creates oxidizers, breaking down pathogens and volatile organic compounds into harmless carbon dioxide and water.

Simply put, photocatalysts mediate chemical reactions and are activated by light energy. In the photo-generated catalysis of OxiTitan antimicrobial coatings, light energy produces electrons with powerful reductive action and electron holes, which generate free radicals. These hydroxyl (OH) and singlet oxygen radicals are strong oxidants, and in the presence of water or normal interior humidity, mineralize microbes and air pollutants. OxiTitan is unique in that this cleaning action works even in visible or interior light, in the absence of Ultra Violet light required by other photocatalysts.

As a catalyst, OxiTitan is not used up or worn out, and sustains the photo-oxidation continuously. OxiTitan does this without change to its own structure and therefore has an indefinite life span. Micro-organisms carry a negative charge and are strongly attracted to the positively charged OxiTitan coating. Our nano particle zinc in a titanium dioxide and silicon dioxide crystal matrix has an extraordinarily high surface area and chemical attraction. The microbe is trapped and reduced by this bacteriostatic effect, even in the dark. The process is completed by the photo-oxidation of the virus, bacteria or spore, eliminating microbial growth.

The photocatalytic action of OxiTitan is equally effective against volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in the air, such as nitrous oxides, formaldehyde, ammonia, chlorine and even ethylene (the gas that hastens fruit ripening). OxiTitan diminishes unpleasant smells such as human and pet odors and even acetaldehyde (the ‘tobacco smoke’ smell) and reduces contaminants and pollutants.

OxiTitan’s light activated ability to kill microbes on contact, safely and continuously, makes it one of the most important new tools in the control of transmitted infection and the reduction of airborne pollutants including odors caused by VOCs makes the air not only cleaner but healthier.