Photocatalysis is a process by which it is possible to transform CO₂ into oxygen. Several Spanish cities and roads are already benefiting from this process thanks to photocatalytic asphalts and pavements.
It sounds like science fiction, but the truth is that the basic concept of catalytic asphalts There is nothing futuristic about it, although its application to Spanish pavements and roads is relatively recent.
But how does this photocatalytic asphalt work, which is capable of cleaning the air in order to compensate for the pollution produced in cities and highways? Its origin is based on photosynthesis.
How photocatalytic asphalt works
The process of photosynthesis is known and studied in schools: thanks to it, plants convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into pure oxygen. This is possible thanks to the chlorophyll in their tissues and in the presence of solar radiation.
Photocatalysis is a fairly similar process: in the presence of solar radiation, materials treated with titanium dioxide They are capable of degrading compounds present in urban pollution, transforming them into innocuous solid waste that can be evacuated by rain or washing.
Among these harmful compounds are nitrogen oxides (NOx)present in cities as a result of the emission of polluting gases by vehicles, among others.
To benefit from photocatalysis, flooring of this type includes a layer of titanium oxide, a semiconductor material It helps deactivate nitrogen oxides and other compounds.
In Spain, photocatalytic asphalt and pavement is still testimonial due to the difficulty of its installation, although in the cities of Madrid and Barcelona It has been used for a couple of years now. Little by little, it begins to spread to roads of the national geography.
Benefits of photocatalytic pavements
We have already made it clear that the main advantage of a photocatalytic pavement or asphalt is that it reduces pollution. But this effect derives in other benefits What should be taken into account:
- Reduction of the effect of allergiesrespiratory and eye diseases
- Less accumulation of heat in the cities
- Greater resistance to rain and less accumulation of dirt on the surface
- Superior durability
- Greater resistance to temperatures extreme
- Reduction of generation of dust during use
Asphalts and photocatalytic pavements, one more step towards a cleaner and more friendly urban environment with its inhabitants.
Photos: Freepik