Abstract
Cement based Eternit plates modified by TiO 2/SiO 2 surface layers acquired self-cleaning properties. The TiO 2/SiO 2 coating was transparent indicating that the small TiO 2 (rutile) crystals cause no significant scattering. The parameters related to the composition of the TiO 2/SiO 2 coating were investigated in relation to concentration and ratio of the components and the time and temperature necessary for the colloid networking to produce the self-cleaning effect. The repetitive discoloration of natural pigments on the TiO 2/SiO 2/Eternit plates was observed showing the stable performance of the TiO 2/SiO 2coating. FTIR spectroscopy shows the stability of the acrylic and cellulose components on the TiO 2/SiO 2/Eternit plates after repetitive self-cleaning cycles. A self-cleaning mechanism is suggested in agreement with the experimental findings. The SiO 2 layers seem to avoid the radical attack on the acrylic topmost layers of the Eternit plates due to the TiO 2 (h + vb) generated under solar simulated radiation. The profile and thickness of the coating was estimated by confocal microscopy. X-ray diffraction showed that the Eternit plates had a structure forming function on the TiO 2/SiO 2 layers leading to the formation of rutile from the Ti-colloids at temperatures as low as ∼80 °C.
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