Photocatalytic Concrete Screeds With Self-Cleaning and Antimicrobial Function

Abstract

Photocatalytic concrete screeds with self-cleaning and antimicrobial function have been developed and tested. These building materials contain sand grains with deposited composite TiO2/SiO2 layers. Two types of the screeds, grey and white, were prepared and their photoactivity and material characteristics were compared. Commercial TiO2 photocatalysts from several manufacturers were employed. Effects of different parameters, such as temperature of the coated sand calcination, humidity, and surface abrasion, were followed. Mechanical properties of the screeds were analyzed by SEM/XRD microscopy. Photocatalytic activity was tested by means of NOx oxidation (ISO norm 22197-1/2007). Antibacterial activity was evaluated by modified ISO norm 27447/2009 with Bacillus subtilis as a model organism.