Photocatalysis is based on absorption of light and consequent production of oxidizing and reducing species both on the semiconductor and in the surrounding medium capable of partly or wholly mineralising the majority of organic compounds. The oxidation state of inorganic compounds could be changed as well.
Its principle is based on the simultaneous action of photons and of a catalytic layer which allows to destroy the molecules. The most commonly used photocatalyst is titanium dioxide (TiO2), which is thermodynamically stable, non toxic and economical. It can be used in powder form in water or deposited on a substrate (glass fibre, fabrics, plates/sheets,...).
Photocatalysis applications in the following sectors:
- Air purification
- Water purification
- Self cleaning application (surfaces: glass, metals, concretes, cements, plastics, ceramics, textils, paints and varnishes, etc.)
- Medical application
- Light sources (UV A, UVB, UVC, visible,...)
The objective is to introduce performance standards for photocatalytic effects (including photo induced effects).
The EN standards will mainly concern test and analysis methods.