EU Smart Construction Materials to Absorb Pollution

Innovative construction materials that can absorb air pollution are being tested and developed by a European consortium and the EC Joint Research Center as part of the PICADA (Photo-catalytic Innovative Coverings Applications for De-pollution Assessment) project.

The “smart” construction materials (plaster, mortar, architectural concrete) and coatings containing titanium dioxide can capture and absorb organic and inorganic air pollutants after being exposed to sun-light. The “degraded” air pollutants can then be washed away by rainwater or are neutralized by alkaline calcium carbonate in the materials.

Some products, such as Ecopaint, which absorbs nitrogen oxides, have already been tested and are ready for market use, while others are still being tested.

“Smart coatings can cause a revolution, not only in the management of air pollution but also in how architects and town planners tackle the persistent problem of urban smog,” said European Research Commissioner, Philippe Busquin.

Various types of “smart” materials were tested under simulated real world settings of humidity, temperature and ultra-violet radiation at the JRC’s Indoortron facility in Italy, but have yet to be applied outside of laboratory conditions. Preliminary tests of similar products under field conditions, however, show that air quality can be significantly improved.

In 2002, 7,000 square meters of road surface in Milan were covered with a photo-catalytic cement-like material. Results showed a 60% reduction in the concentration of nitrogen oxides at street level.

Scientists believe that coating materials would be better than cement as they can be used on buildings and street furniture, covering a far greater surface so can remove a far greater amount of pollutants.

The project will cost €3.4 million, of which €1.9 million will come from the European Commission. So far, researchers have focused on developing products for outdoor applications, but, in future, will be concentrating on developing products for indoor environments.

The PICADA project began on January 1, 2002 and will finish in 2005.