Photocatalytic technology in architectural context: From science to societal debates

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a multidisciplinary field that continues to evolve and expand in many areas of life, in science and architecture especially, based on photocatalytic reactions of nano-materials. This paper identifies some examples of how photocatalytic technology may be used or considered for use in many applications based on TiO₂ nano-particles targeted to provide cleaner, more efficient energy supplies and uses to make architecture more sustainable. However, concern about its unintended impacts on human and environmental health has been a driver for research not only on risk assessment but also for their safe manufacturing, use and disposal. Thus, it is important to take a proactive approach to risk assessment and mitigate the potential impact of nano-particles to human health and environment. This review aims (a) to introduce photocatalytic applications in architectural context; (b) to introduce TiO₂ nano-architecture that were either constructed for use in construction industry or that can be used for future research in the field of smart behaviour and third-generation photovoltaic; (c) to present environmental release and exposure scenarios during the lifecycle of nano-materials and (d) finally, to identify potential risks that contribute to the future societal debates for their use.