Transparent Photocatalyst Coating via Sputtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing photocatalytic coatings exhibit low photocatalytic activity and incompatibility with commonly used binders, limiting their effectiveness in indoor applications for air and water purification and antibacterial surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A photocatalytic composition comprising a photocatalyst, a non-photocatalyst, and/or a co-catalyst is used, where the co-catalyst enhances the photocatalytic activity of the photocatalyst, and the materials are combined in a thin layer on a substrate using sputtering techniques to improve transparency and activity, with specific ratios of photocatalysts like Ti-based, W-based, and Sn-based materials, and co-catalysts like CeO2, applied in a sputtering gas atmosphere.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional photocatalytic coatings are used, then photocatalytic activity is achieved, but transparency and compatibility with binders are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining photocatalyst particles (such as TiO2, ZnO, or WO3) with transparent binder materials to create a coating that maintains both photocatalytic activity and transparency. The composite structure allows the photocatalyst to retain its functional properties while the transparent binder ensures optical clarity and compatibility with substrates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies parameters such as particle size, concentration, and distribution of photocatalyst materials within the coating matrix. By optimizing these parameters, the coating achieves enhanced photocatalytic activity while maintaining transparency and compatibility with various binders and substrates.
2Reliability
If photocatalyst concentration is increased to improve activity, then photocatalytic performance improves, but transparency of the coating deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform distributions of photocatalyst particles within the coating. Areas with higher photocatalyst concentration are strategically placed where maximum photocatalytic activity is needed, while other areas maintain lower concentrations to preserve transparency. This spatial variation optimizes both activity and optical properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes porous structures in the coating matrix that allow high photocatalyst loading while maintaining light transmission. The porous architecture provides high surface area for photocatalyst dispersion and light scattering pathways that enhance activity without completely blocking transparency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The approach results in a photocatalytic coating that achieves significant photocatalytic activity, with the ability to remove over 50% of pollutants from air or water when exposed to light, and demonstrates enhanced antibacterial properties.
Implementation Method 1
forming a thin layer of a photocatalytic composition by sputtering at least one photocatalytic source and at least one non-photocatalytic source onto a target material in a sputtering gas atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
Visible-light activated photocatalysts can be deployed for self-cleaning, air, and water purification... the photocatalysts are able to decompose pollutants using available ambient light like solar radiation or indoor and outdoor lighting
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for making photocatalyst compositions and elements exhibiting desired photocatalytic activity levels and transparency.