Self-cleaning treatment on historical stone surface via titanium dioxide nanocoatings

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the possibility of using titanium dioxide coating in the field of architectural heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a titanium dioxide coating was prepared and then applied to the travertine stone surfaces. The nature of the coating was determined through various observations and analyses. Moreover, the effect of photocatalytic self-cleaning was evaluated using an organic dye (Rhodamine B).

Findings

The results of XRD, DLS and SEM confirmed the formation of small anatase crystals. The hydrophilic behavior on the surface was observed by coatings based on titanium dioxide.

Research limitations/implications

The self-cleaning ability of titanium dioxide is due to the synergistic effect of its optical inductive property, which is activated with sunlight.

Practical implications

The self-cleaning coatings are interested for many industries. The reported data can be used by the formulators working in the research and development departments.

Social implications

Self-cleaning systems are considered as smart coatings. Therefore, the developing of its knowledge can help to extend its usage to different applications.

Originality/value

The application of titanium dioxide coating in the field of architectural heritage is a great challenge. Therefore, in this research, a titanium dioxide coating was prepared by sol-gel method and then applied on travertine surfaces and its properties were studied.

Citation

Kardar, P. and Amini, R. (2019), "Self-cleaning treatment on historical stone surface via titanium dioxide nanocoatings", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 48 No. 5, pp. 404-408. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-10-2018-0110