PURPOSES : NOx is a particle matter precursor that is harmful to humans. Various methods of removing NOx from the air have been developed. TiO2 and activated carbon are particularly useful materials for removing NOx, and the method is known as particulate matter precursor reduction. The removal of NOx using TiO2 requires sunlight for the photocatalytic reaction, whereas activated carbon absorbs NOx particles into its pores after contact with the atmosphere. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the NOx removal efficiency of TiO2 and activated carbon applied to concrete surfaces using the penetration method.
METHODS : Surface penetration agents, such as silane-siloxane and silicate, were used. Photocatalyst TiO2 and adsorbent activated carbons were selected as the materials for NOx removal. TiO2 used in this study was formed by crystal structures of anatase and rutile, and plant-type and coal-type materials were used for the activated carbon. Each surface penetration agent was mixed with each particulate matter sealer at a concentration ratio of 8:2, and the mixtures were sprayed onto the surface. The NOx removal efficiency was evaluated using NOx removal efficiency equipment fabricated in compliance with the ISO 22197-1 standard.
RESULTS : Anatase TiO2 showed a maximum NOx removal efficiency of 48% when 500 g/m² was applied. However, 500 g/m² of rutile TiO2 showed a NOx removal efficiency of up to 10%. When 700 g/m² of coal-based activated carbon and plant-based activated carbon was used, NOx removal efficiencies of up to 11% and 14%, respectively, were obtained.
CONCLUSIONS : Rutile TiO2, a coal-based activated carbon, and plant-based activated carbon have lower NOx removal efficiencies than anatase TiO2. A lower amount of anatase TiO2 (500 g/m²), compared to the other spraying volumes, yielded the most significant NOx removal efficiency under optimal conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that 500 g/m² of anatase TiO2 should be sprayed onto concrete structures to improve the economic and long-term performance of these structures.