In an era of growing concerns about smog, air pollution, and airborne diseases, solutions that improve air quality are desperately needed. A group of researchers from the Department of Environmental Technology at the Faculty of Chemistry of the University of Gdańsk, led by prof. dr hab. inż. Adriana Zaleska-Medynska has developed a breakthrough technology using modified titanium oxide-based nanotubes (IV) which, when illuminated by UVA diodes, effectively purify the air of volatile organic compounds, inorganic pollutants and microorganisms, including viruses. The invention has been granted patent protection!

The technology for purifying air under the influence of radiation emitted by energy-efficient UVA diodes using a photocatalytic layer in the form of modified TiO₂ was developed in cooperation with scientists from the Jagiellonian University and in partnership with BEWI, a Polish manufacturer of window and door joinery. The authors of the invention from the University of Gdańsk are, apart from prof. dr hab. inż. Adriana Zaleska-Medynska, dr inż. Paweł Mazierski, dr inż. Joanna Nadolna, dr inż. Beata Bajorowicz and dr inż. Anna Gołąbiewska. The joint efforts of the research team focused on developing a new material with unique photocatalytic properties and its practical application.

What is the invention?

Photocatalysis is a process in which light, mainly from the ultraviolet and visible spectrum, initiates chemical reactions on the surface of special materials (photocatalysts).

In the case of the invention by the team from the University of Gdańsk, UVA radiation activates the surface of TiO₂ nanotubes modified with metals, causing the formation of active forms of oxygen, including hydroxyl radicals. These powerful oxidants effectively break down organic and inorganic pollutants, resulting in harmless carbon dioxide and water.

This approach differs from those used in traditional filters, such as HEPA, in that instead of trapping pollutants on the surface, it causes their complete decomposition and also inactivates harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses.

TiO₂ nanotubes modified with copper and silver nanoparticles are produced by a simple electrochemical method with multiple use of the same reagents. The method itself is easily scalable, which gives hope for widespread implementation of the invention.

Application

The new technology has enormous potential in many areas, including

• air purification in rooms where many people are present at the same time, e.g. in schools, hospitals or offices,
• improving the quality of outdoor air that introduces harmful chemical compounds into interiors through open windows, air vents and ventilation systems,
• creating self-cleaning surfaces, e.g. on building facades, which break down organic pollutants under the influence of sunlight.

The technology has already found practical application. BEWI, a manufacturer of PVC and aluminium joinery, which is part of a consortium working on the implementation of this innovative solution, has developed the first prototype of an air purifier based on the invention. The device, which is tailored to the size of the room and the level of pollution, effectively removes harmful chemical compounds and microorganisms.

Engineers and technologists from BEWI have also designed a modern housing for the device, ensuring its aesthetics and functionality, and adapting it to the expectations of future customers. The prototype is currently being tested in a hospital. The device will be tested in rooms intended for patients who must stay in pollution-free spaces.

The invention has received funding from the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) for further research, development and implementation. Efforts are currently underway to move towards industrial production and commercialisation of the technology. A business partner is developing the project, working on optimising the devices in terms of cost, performance and wide application.

The modified TiO₂ nanotubes developed by prof. Adriana Zaleska-Medynska's team are an example of an innovative approach to combating air pollution. Thanks to the use of UVA radiation emitted by energy-efficient diodes and modern nanomaterials, the invention not only purifies the air, but also contributes to the protection of public health and the improvement of the quality of life in cities.

The patent protection process for the invention was coordinated by the Technology Transfer Office of the University of Gdańsk.