Air Purification with TiO₂ Coatings

Delhi, known for its severe air pollution, has initiated a time-bound feasibility study on TiO₂ coatings to combat harmful gases in the atmosphere. This step is part of the government’s commitment to adopting science-based, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions.

For SSC aspirants, this topic is highly relevant under environmental science, current affairs, and government initiatives.

What Are TiO₂ Coatings?

TiO₂ coatings, also known as titanium dioxide coatings, are a type of photocatalytic coating applied to surfaces like roads, pavements, and public spaces. When exposed to sunlight, titanium dioxide acts as a catalyst and breaks down harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NO₂) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• They work through a process called photocatalysis, where sunlight activates the coating and converts toxic gases into less harmful substances.

• These coatings can be used as TiO₂ paint, pollution coating, or even as air-purifying paint on public infrastructure.

• Research shows that self-cleaning coatings of TiO₂ are compatible with traditional building materials like asphalt and concrete, making them ideal for urban spaces.

Thus, TiO₂ coatings are emerging as a passive, cost-effective solution to fight urban air pollution.

Government’s Initiative in Delhi

• The Environment Department will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a scientific institution within 30 days.

• Field trials of road and pavement TiO₂ coating will be conducted in selected areas.

• Monthly progress reports will be released, and a final evaluation report will be submitted six months after the MoU.

• If successful, the project may expand citywide, with priority given to busy markets, roads, and public spaces.

The Delhi government has made it clear that TiO₂ coatings will be a key part of its 24×7, 365-day environmental action plan if the trials succeed.

Why TiO₂ Coatings for Reducing Air Pollution?

Delhi suffers from smog, high nitrogen dioxide levels, and vehicular emissions. The introduction of TiO₂ coatings for reducing air pollution in cities aims to:

• Passively clean the air without consuming energy.

• Provide a continuous pollution reduction method on surfaces exposed to sunlight.

• Reduce smog and related respiratory illnesses.

• Offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional air purification methods.

The effectiveness of TiO₂ coatings in smog reduction has been noted in global research, making this step significant for Indian cities.

Scientific and Technical Considerations

1. Effectiveness: Studies suggest that TiO₂ photocatalytic coating can reduce harmful gases in high-traffic areas.

2. Safety: The government will monitor safety standards closely to avoid harmful side effects.

3. Suppliers: Credible suppliers of titanium dioxide surface coating will be identified to maintain quality.

4. Innovation: Students, startups, and researchers are encouraged to contribute ideas for faster adoption of photocatalytic TiO₂ coating for nitrogen dioxide removal.

Cost and Practical Aspects

The cost of applying TiO₂ coatings on roads and buildings is relatively low compared to other pollution control measures. Because they are chemically stable and long-lasting, maintenance expenses are also minimal. For SSC aspirants, it is important to remember that cost efficiency is one reason why these coatings are being considered for large-scale use.

This makes TiO₂ coatings one of the best TiO₂ coatings for environmental applications, especially in developing cities.

Potential Impact on Urban Air Quality

• Large-scale deployment of anti-pollution wall coating and air-purifying paint can drastically improve daily air quality in cities like Delhi.

• By cutting down pollutants, how titanium dioxide coatings improve air quality can be linked to better public health, reduced hospital visits, and cleaner surroundings.

• This initiative, if successful, could be replicated across other Indian cities facing similar air pollution challenges.

The passive nature of TiO₂ coatings ensures that once applied, they continue to work without additional energy input, making them sustainable and efficient.

Final Thoughts

Delhi has started a feasibility study on TiO₂ coatings to tackle its growing air pollution problem. These titanium dioxide-based photocatalytic coatings can be applied to roads, pavements, and buildings. When exposed to sunlight, they help break down harmful pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and volatile organic compounds, turning them into less toxic substances.

The government plans to test this technology in busy areas such as markets and public spaces, with field trials and regular progress reports. If proven effective, TiO₂ coatings could become a cost-efficient, sustainable way to improve urban air quality. This approach offers a passive, continuous solution that doesn’t require energy consumption, while also reducing smog and health risks. In the long term, these coatings may help cities like Delhi breathe easier and move toward a cleaner, healthier future.