Thanks to a new titanium dioxide coating, the bathrooms of the future will always be spotless, eliminating the need for human cleaning efforts.
This self-cleaning material is the product of researchers from the ARC Centre of Functional Nanomaterials in Australia. According to Professor Rose Amal, with this material, households and hospitals will no longer need to use surface cleaners or other chemicals.
Currently, tiny titanium dioxide particles, measuring 20 nanometers in diameter, are being used to coat outdoor surfaces, such as self-cleaning windows. These particles absorb ultraviolet light with wavelengths below 380 nanometers.
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With the new nano-coating, scenes like this will become a thing of the past (Photo: VietNaMNet) |
The wavelength stimulates the electrons and enhances the oxidation capability of titanium dioxide beyond that of chlorine-based cleaners. As a result, these nano-particles can eliminate bacteria and break down organic substances from vehicle and factory emissions into carbon dioxide and water.
Surfaces coated with nano-sized titanium dioxide particles can also self-clean when exposed to water, preventing droplets from forming on them.
However, titanium dioxide can only be activated by ultraviolet light with wavelengths below 380 nanometers, specifically in sunlight, not other light sources. This means that up until now, self-cleaning coatings have only been used for outdoor surfaces.
Professor Amal and her team have modified the nano-sized titanium dioxide particles so that they can absorb light with higher wavelengths, above 400 nanometers, within the visible spectrum. They also mixed these particles with small amounts of iron or nitrogen.
Tests have shown that glass coated with these new particles can be activated by light from lamps to eliminate Escherichia coli bacteria. Additionally, it can break down volatile organic compounds.
This material can be applied to tiles, mirrors, glass panels, and seats in bathrooms and hospitals. It is also highly beneficial for outdoor surfaces.
Minh Sơn (According to ABCNews)
