fotocatalysator

A photocatalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction when it is exposed to light. The most common type of photocatalyst is titanium dioxide (TiO2). When TiO2 is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, it becomes energized and generates highly reactive oxygen species. These species can then break down organic pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), into less harmful substances like water and carbon dioxide.

Photocatalysis is a process that uses light to drive chemical reactions. It involves the absorption of light by a photocatalyst, which then transfers energy to surrounding molecules, initiating or accelerating a reaction. This phenomenon is often employed in environmental applications for air and water purification. For instance, photocatalytic materials can be incorporated into building materials, paints, and filters to help remove pollutants from the air. In water treatment, they can be used to degrade organic contaminants and kill bacteria.

The effectiveness of a photocatalyst depends on several factors, including the material's properties, the intensity and wavelength of the light source, and the nature of the reactants. Research is ongoing to develop more efficient and cost-effective photocatalysts, including those that can operate under visible light, which is more abundant than UV light. Applications extend beyond pollution control to areas like self-cleaning surfaces, solar energy conversion, and antimicrobial coatings. The development of novel photocatalytic materials and processes is an active area of scientific research.