Development of Photoactive Nano TiO₂ Thin Film-Geopolymer Based on Laterite Soils Deposit Gowa Regency as Self-Cleaning Material

Abstract

The main objectives of this study is to investigate the properties of photoactive Nano TiO2 thin film-geopolymer based on laterite soils deposit Gowa regency as self-cleaning material. The soil was clean, grounded, sieves 200 mesh and dehydroxylated at 750 for 2 hours. Nano TiO2 was prepared through ball milling process for 10 hours. The geopolymers was synthesized through alkali activation method by adjusting the molar oxide ratios of SiO2/(Al2O3+Fe2O3), Na2O/SiO2 and H2O/Na2O in accordance with the chemical compositions of the soils. Nano TiO2 was added into geopolymers paste at different concentration namely 0.5% and 1.0% (relative to the mass of laterite soils) by using spray method. The self-cleaning properties of the sample were observed by immersing the sample into clays solution then irradiated under UV lamp for 24 hours. The X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) was performed to examine the structure and phase of the sample. The surface morphology of geopolymers was studied by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The measurements results showed that photoactive Nano TiO2-geopolymers composite can be applied as self-cleaning materials.

Study on the Possibilities of Developing Cementitious or Geopolymer Composite Materials with Specific Performances by Exploiting the Photocatalytic Properties of TiO2 Nanoparticles

“…In a similar direction of research development, Chindaprasirt et al [ 269 ] indicate the possibility of inducing superhydrophobicity and self-cleaning capability of the surface of a geopolymer made based on alkali-activated fly ash, Na 2 SiO 3 /NaOH = 2, but in this case which benefited from a polymeric surface coating. Permatasari et al [ 270 ] indicate the possibility of inducing self-healing performance for the surface of a geopolymer made from Gowa Regency soil deposit laterite, to which a thin film of NT solution coating was sprayed. This method allows for inducing a self-cleaning character, without influencing the flexural strength, with the mention that, once this film is destroyed, the self-cleaning capacity is lost.…”