A fast method for detection of UV effect on surfaces was developed. The method was used in the present project. The method is based on the use of functional paints in combination with a photocatalyst. The change of color of the sensor depends on the time of irradiation. The method can be used in various environments and is very sensitive, even appropritae for use on daily light.
F.06 Development of a new product
COBISS.SI-ID: 1841255Facade paints are expected to preserve both the functionality and the estheticlook through long periods of time. Introduction of up-to-date components such as photocatalysts, which are used for self-cleaning effect of paints, generates problems due to poor compatibility of selected materials properties. It seems that the weakest link in self-cleaning paints is the degradation of organic pigments. In the present work a model organic pigment ß - copper phthalo cyanine was encapsulated by silicon dioxide via a sol gel process to obtain protection against the photocatalyst titanium dioxide. Such encapsulated organic pigments can then be used in photocatalytically active self cleaning decorative facade coatings. The quality of encapsulation around pigment particles was determined by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). It was found that TEM is an excellent method for detecting and monitoring the quality of protective nanodimensional layer SiO2 onto the surfaces of organic pigments.
B.03 Paper at an international scientific conference
COBISS.SI-ID: 1784935In the scope of an important international conference we demonstrated the recent achievements in the field of protection of organic pigments against high reactivity products of photocatalysis.
F.18 Transfer of new know-how to direct users (seminars, fora, conferences)
COBISS.SI-ID: 1818471The main goal in the present work has been to protect the organic pigment against photocatalysis by encapsulation. Detailed study on synthesis and influence of different parameters (temperature, pH) on silica encapsulation of model organic pigments was investigated. It is shown that thethickness, porosity and uniformity of silica shells (coatings) around individual pigment particles depend significantly on pH and temperature of synthesis. It is further demonstrated that the obtained silica shells can serve as an efficient protection against the highly reactive products of photocatalysis. The degree of protection depends not only on the thickness of silica shells but also on their porosity.
F.02 Acquisition of new scientific knowledge
COBISS.SI-ID: 1899879In comprehensive report, we describe procedures for preparation of TiO2 nanoparticle suspensions. The procedures were, to a large extent, developed and used in the present project.
F.10 Improvements to an existing technological process or technology
COBISS.SI-ID: 4639258