|
Q:
What is photocatalytic?
A: When a photocatalyst titanium dioxide (TiO2)
captures ultraviolet light (UV) either from sun or fluorescent light,
it forms activated oxygen from water or oxygen in the air. This process
is similar to photosynthesis, in which chlorophyll captures sunlight
to turn water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose. The formed
activated oxygen is strong enough to oxidize and decompose organic
materials or smelling gas, and kill bacteria.
^Top^
Q:
What is Titanium
dioxide?
A: Titanium dioxide,
also known as titania, is the naturally occurring oxide of titanium,
chemical formula TiO2. Approved by the
food testing laboratory of the United States Food and Drug Administration
(FDA), Titanium Dioxide is considered a safe substance and harmless
to human. It is commonly used in paint, printing ink, plastics,
paper, synthetic fibers, rubber, condensers, painting colors and crayons,
ceramics, electronic components along with food and cosmetics. Many
studies have been published on the use of titanium dioxide as a photocatalyst
for the decomposition of organic compounds. After
illuminated by light, titanium dioxide produces hydroxyl radicals,
which react with the organic matters in the air to form non-toxic
inorganic matters.
^Top^
Q:
What
effects does photocatalyst treatment have?
A: We succeeded in finding a novel phenomenon
on the photocatalyst. That is, when the surface of photocatalytic
film is exposed to light, the contact angle of the photocatalyst surface
with water is reduced gradually. After enough exposure to light, the
surface reaches super-hydrophilicity. In other words, it does not
repel water at all, so the water cannot exist in the shape of a drop,
but spreads flatly on the surface of photocatalyst.
The photo-catalytic super-hydrophilicity is important technology,
because it has wider applications, including anti-fogging, self-cleaning
properties, sterilization, deodorization, antifouling and removal
of pollutants can be achieved. UV rays are part of sunlight and fluorescent
light, no special operating costs are required and the reaction can
be maintained semi-permanently. Moreover, 's photocatalyst contains
no volatile organic compound (VOC) and neutral pH. This supports government's
Green House theory to help create a safe, low emission of VOC, and
energy saving house.
^Top^
Q:
What
are the benefits of photocatalyst treatments?
A: Hydroxyl radicals are among the strongest
oxidizing species, even much stronger than chlorine, ozone, and peroxide.
They act as very powerful disinfecting agents by oxidizing the cells
of microorganisms, causing rupture and leakage of vital composition. Deodorizing. On
the deodorizing application, the hydroxyl radicals accelerate the
breakdown of any Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs by destroying
the molecular bonds. This will help combine the organic gases to form
a single molecule that is not harmful to humans thus enhance the air
cleaning efficiency. Some of the examples of odor molecules
are: Tobacco odor, formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide, urine and fecal
odor, gasoline, and many other hydrocarbon molecules in the atmosphere
Sterilization, Anti-Bacterial and Mold Preventing
Nano photocatalyst titanium dioxide has strong oxidation affects to
single-celled organism that includes all bacteria and fungus. The
very strong oxidizing power of Titanium Dioxide can destroy bacteria's
cell membrane, causing leakage of the cytoplasm, which inhibits bacteria's
activity and ultimately results in the death and decomposition of
bacteria. Generally speaking, disinfections by titanium oxide is three
times stronger than chlorination, and 1.5 times stronger than ozonation.
^Top^
Q:
Why is photocatalyst treatment semi-permanent?
A: Although it is
originally water-soluble, it dries quickly after application and becomes
water-insoluble. It also becomes as hard as a 4H pencil in ten to
fourteen days after application. It does not come off unless the surface
is polished. Even a bathroom can be used immediately after application.
Because titanium oxide is merely the catalyst and is not changed,
its effect is semi-permanent except when walls and ceilings are repainted.
^Top^
Q:
How long does photocatalyst treatment last after application?
A: Since photocatalyst
TiO2 is only acting as semi-conductor catalyst, it is not consumed
during the oxidation process, therefore, completing a long lasting
oxidation cycle. is now offering a five years product and services
warranty.
^Top^
Q:
Is photocatalyst treatment safe?
A:
Yes, it will be no harm of direct touching the material or
having direct contact with it after its drying time. The material
is totally safe and the titanium dioxide used is FDA approved (refer
to EPA certified toxicity lab report).
^Top^
Q:
Where
can photocatalyst treatments be applied?
A: provides
photocatalyst surface coating for long-lasting effects of deodorization,
sterilization, and anti-soiling purposes. Using our specialized spray-coating
equipments, a fine mist of photocatalyst can be applied on different
types of surface material that guarantees the maximum result
In
automobiles |
Building
Exterior |
Photocatalyst
can deodorize the interior and gives the driver and passengers
a more pleasant driving experience. Odor embedded in the carpet
and seats will eventually be decomposed and gives the car owner
that new car feel again.
|
IgotMold's
Nano-TiO2 Photocatalyst can be applied on the exterior of a
building to treat and prevent unsightly damages caused by acid
rain, moisture, and smog. It cuts down the overall maintenance
cost and time.
|
Deodorizing
Indoor Environment |
Sanitizing
and Sterilizing Environment |
IgotMold's
Nano-TiO2 Photocatalyst decomposes odor molecules caused by
tobacco smoke, pets, chemicals in detergents, urine and fecal
matters. Photocatalyst will continuously deodorize your living
space and eliminates the sources.
|
With
a constant amount of light provided, IgotMold's Nano-TiO2 photocatalyst
can control and prevent growth of bacteria, germ, and mold.
Any harmful bacteria and germ would be killed and eventually
decomposed in this sterilized condition.
-
Hospital
-
Schools
-
Public Restrooms
-
Restaurant
-
Day-Care centers
|
^Top^
Q:
How does photocatalyst treatment compare to traditional air purification
system?
A:
HEPA (High Efficiency Particle
Arresting) Filter
Most widely known method for purifying air.
Depending on the filter size, it can clean up to 99.99% of particulate
in the air with proper ventilation. They are not effective on
treating mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi.
Electrostatic Filtration
Another filtration system with a negatively
charged surface is used to attract particulate. In comparison
to most HEPA systems it is more effective in trapping smaller
micron particulate and effective in clearing smoke from the
air. Low levels of ozone may be produced which can neutralize
most mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi that comes in contact
with the filter.
Ionization
Also uses a negatively charged surface to produce
and expels an abundance of negative ions and cause suspended
particles to cling to walls, floors, and other surfaces . Most
ionizers are effective in settling dust and particulate out
of our breathing space.
Ozone
Ozone is a very powerful oxidizer that will
neutralize odors, mold, mildew, bacteria, and other fungi. This
technology is commonly used in flood and fire restoration. Ozone
is found to be effective because it works on the problem at
the source and air does not have to be pulled through the unit
for treatment.
UV Germicidal Lamps
Commonly used for disinfecting purposes. This
technology is effective in sterilizing air and surfaces that
come in contact with the UV light. UV has been proven in both
air and water applications to inactivate bacteria and viruses
to prevent them from reproducing.
Photocatalysis
Using light to react with a catalyst resulting
in oxidation. This is found to be effective in destroying mold,
mildew, bacteria, other fungi, dust mites, and many odors. This
technology is produced with an Ozone/UV lamp set in a variety
of combinations. When this type of photocatalysis is combined
with the natural humidity in indoor air it creates hydroxyl
radicals and super oxide ions that are effective in combating
bacteria, fungi and VOC. This method is also a pro-active approach
that goes to the source for treatment.
|
| |
|
Electrostatic
|
Ozone
|
UV
|
Ionizer
|
Photocatalysis
|
Mold
|
Poor |
Good |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent |
Bacteria
|
Poor |
Good |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent
|
Dust
Mites |
Poor |
Poor |
Poor |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent
|
Gases
|
Poor |
Poor |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent
|
Odors
|
Poor |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Good |
Excellent
|
Smoke
|
Good |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent |
Good
|
VOCs
|
Poor |
Poor |
Good |
Good |
Poor |
Excellent
|
Pet
Dander |
Good |
Good |
Good |
Good |
Good |
Excellent
|
|
^Top^
Q:
Can photocatalyst coating be easily removed?
A: After being dry,
photocatalyst forms a very solid film that can't be wiped off unless
strong cleaning chemicals are used.
^Top^
Q:
What factors may influence the efficiency of photocatalyst treatment?
A: Light and airflow
will have a remarkable influence over the reaction of the photocatalyst.
Both factors are needed to maintain the coating effectiveness all
the time. From that, the better airflow you have (air circulation
which can be obtained by using an ordinary fan or the normal air movement
from air conditioner ducts) and the longer light times, the better
the results of coating will be achieved.
^Top^
Q:
What is Indoor Air Pollution?
A: Research indicates that people spend approximately
80 ~ 90 percent of their time indoors, where they are exposed to polluted
indoor air that may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat,
headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and even lung cancer or other malignancies.
Recent study reveals that bacteria, molds and house dust mites bred
inside carpets and air conditioners can be airborne by dust particles,
paints, varnishes, harmful chemical fibers and pressed wood products,
which are most commonly used in household decoration, may emit formaldehyde,
benzene and other hazardous and carcinogenic organic chemicals --
all these as well as unwholesome matters produced in the metabolism
of human bodies and ammonia inside toilets have made the air within
homes and other buildings more seriously polluted than the outdoor
air. People may experience one or more of the following reactions
when exposed to indoor air pollution:
Allergic Reactions Some common signs and symptoms
are:
·
Watery eyes
·
Runny nose and sneezing
·
Nasal congestion
·
Itching
·
Coughing
·
Wheezing and difficulty breathing
·
Headaches
·
Fatigue
Infectious Reactions Caused by bacteria and
viruses, such as influenza, measles, chicken pox, and tuberculosis.
Most infectious diseases pass from person to person through physical
contact. Crowded conditions with poor air circulation can promote
this spread. Some bacteria and viruses thrive in buildings and circulate
through indoor ventilation systems.
Toxic Reactions Some fungi
are known to produce toxic substances as a by-product of their metabolism,
which can cause a variety of adverse health effects. Short-term symptoms
can include dermatitis, respiratory irritation, headaches and fatigue.
Long-term health effects can include cancer, damage to the central
nervous system, and suppression of the immune system. The U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency ranks poor indoor air quality among the top five
environmental risks to public health. Poor indoor air quality can
cause or contribute to the development of chronic respiratory diseases
such as asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. In addition, it can
cause headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue. People
who already have respiratory diseases are at greater risk.
^Top^
Q:
What is Sick Building Syndrome?
A: The term " sick building syndrome "
(SBS) is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience
acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time
spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified.
The following have been cited causes of or contributing factors to
sick building syndrome: 1. Inadequate ventilation In an effort to
achieve acceptable Indoor Air Quality or IAQ while minimizing energy
consumption, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) recently revised its ventilation standard to provide
a minimum of 15 cfm of outdoor air per person (20 cfm/person in office
spaces). Up to 60 cfm/person may be required in some spaces (such
as smoking lounges) depending on the activities that normally occur
in that space. 2. Chemical contaminants from indoors sources Most
indoor air pollution comes from sources inside the building. For example,
adhesives, carpeting, upholstery, manufactured wood products, copy
machines, pesticides, and cleaning agents may emit volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde. Environmental tobacco smoke
contributes high levels of VOCs, other toxic compounds, and respirable
particulate matter. Research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic
and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known
carcinogens. Low to moderate levels of multiple VOCs may also produce
acute reactions. Combustion products such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen
dioxide, as well as respirable particles, can come from unvented kerosene
and gas space heaters, woodstoves, fireplaces and gas stoves. 3. Chemical
contaminants from outdoor sources The outdoor air that enters a building
can be a source of indoor air pollution. For example, pollutants from
motor vehicle exhausts; plumbing vents, and building exhausts (e.g.,
bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located
air intake vents, windows, and other openings. In addition, combustion
products can enter a building from a nearby garage. 4. Biological
contaminants Bacteria, molds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological
contaminants. These contaminants may breed in stagnant water that
has accumulated in ducts, humidifiers and drain pans, or where water
has collected on ceiling tiles, carpeting, or insulation. Physical
symptoms related to biological contamination include cough, chest
tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such
as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion.
^Top^
|