Joma Surface Treatment for concrete buildings uses nanotechnology
Quick information
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At a glance
- Non-toxic surface treatment for concrete buildings
- Absorbs NOₓ from air around buildings
- Makes buildings self-cleaning
Joma Surface Treatment has created a non-toxic surface treatment for concrete buildings. It is based on nanoparticles which break down toxic gases in polluted areas.
CHALLENGE
Poor air quality is a threat to human health worldwide. According to the WHO, 91 per cent of the world’s population live in places where the air quality exceeds their guideline limits, with one out of nine deaths every year being caused by polluted air. One of the most harmful pollutants is NOₓ gases, known to cause asthma and respiratory infections.
SOLUTION
Non-toxic surface treatment
Joma Surface Treatment products for concrete are manufactured from water-based titania nanoparticles. The products are non-toxic alternatives to other biocide-containing products on the market.
Joma Surface Treatment products make concrete surfaces self-cleaning – counteracting darkening and greening caused by algae and fungi. They also have a water-repellent effect, protecting concrete from water penetration.
Crucially, the titania nanoparticles are photocatalysts, which means that they react with sunlight to speed up chemical reactions. This breaks NOₓ gases down to harmless nitrates, and organic compounds like bacteria, fungi and algae break down to CO₂ and water.
BENEFITS
Concrete benefits
Joma Surface Treatment’s nanotechnology improves urban air quality through the continuous removal of NOₓ from ambient air. The technology contributes to water and soil quality by reducing the need for chemical cleaning agents. In addition, the solution gives the treated surface area a self-cleaning effect, which reduces maintenance.
MARKET POTENTIAL
Market potential
The global photocatalyst products market size was estimated at USD 1.65 billion in 2016 and is expected to reach USD 4.58 billion by 2025.
Joma Surface Treatment's technology is first and foremost attractive to the self-cleaning and anti-greening market segment of the construction industry, where environmental and economic benefits represent key market drivers for concept acceptance. The solution can be used globally and can also be implemented by private households.
Joma Surface Treatment is a branch of Tiotech AS, a nanotechnology company located in Bergen, Norway, that specialises in titania nanoparticles and photocatalysis.
Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals
3. Good health and well-beingJoma Surface Treatment helps to clean toxic air, contributing to greater health, safety and psychological benefits for people in polluted areas.
11. Sustainable cities and communitiesJoma Surface Treatment helps to maintain infrastructures and buildings – leading to sustainable urbanisation – with help from photocatalysis, which breaks down organic materials and toxic gases.
