Photocatalysis
At INFINITIA, we offer an advanced photocatalysis service focused on applied research and the development of products and industrial solutions for the elimination of pollutants in air and water, disinfection without consumables, and improved sustainability in urban and industrial environments.
Thanks to our team’s experience and the technical capabilities of our industrial laboratory, we characterize, develop, and optimize customized photocatalytic materials, whether based on TiO₂, ZnO, SiO₂, or other semiconductors, and evaluate their performance under ultraviolet radiation or sunlight.
Our service is aimed at both companies that require standardized photocatalysis testing and those seeking specialized technical consulting for new applications.
What is photocatalysis?
Photocatalysis is a process that uses light energy to activate materials capable of degrading organic compounds, bacteria, or other pollutants. At INFINITIA, we approach this technology from a multidisciplinary perspective, combining material characterization, surface engineering, and functional testing under controlled conditions to determine the actual photocatalytic activity of materials.
The service can range from the analysis of treated surfaces to the validation of their effectiveness in real devices or industrial prototypes, adjusting the parameters according to specific regulations or conditions of use.
Benefits of photocatalysis in industry
One of the most notable benefits of using photocatalysis is the possibility of achieving continuous disinfection processes without the need for consumables, which has a major impact in terms of sustainability and operating costs.
At INFINITIA, we have worked with clients seeking to validate materials for indoor air purification in clinical environments, optimize systems for industrial water treatment, and develop functional coatings with self-cleaning or decontaminating properties for use in construction. These developments allow our clients to differentiate themselves in the market through innovation based on science and technology.
Photocatalysis at INFINITIA
At INFINITIA, we have a specialized laboratory for conducting photocatalysis tests, equipped with UV radiation sources, customized photocatalytic reactors, environmental chambers, and volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis systems. Our technical team designs the test protocols, adapts the experimental conditions to each case, and generates comprehensive technical reports that include the quantitative determination of photocatalytic efficacy. In addition, our consultative approach allows us to accompany the client from the definition of the challenge to the industrial implementation of the photocatalytic material or system.
Types of Photocatalysis
At INFINITIA, we perform various types of photocatalysis tests to evaluate the performance of materials and systems in pollutant removal, water and air treatment, and disinfection without consumables processes. Our approach is tailored to each client’s specific requirements, whether in product development, regulatory validation, or applied research.
Heterogeneous photocatalysis under UV or solar radiation
This type of photocatalysis involves the use of a solid material (such as TiO₂, ZnO, or SiO₂) as a photocatalyst, activated by ultraviolet light or sunlight. It is used in applications such as the degradation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), microorganisms, or chemical pollutants.
At INFINITIA, we evaluate the efficiency of the system using controlled protocols that include reactors with regulated lighting, environmental chambers, and monitoring by spectrophotometry or chromatography.
Photocatalytic activity tests on surfaces
We determine the photocatalytic activity in functionalized coatings, paints, ceramics, or textiles. We measure parameters such as the degradation rate of model compounds (oxalic acid, NOx, or methylene) in accordance with standards such as ISO 22197 or ISO 10678.
These tests allow us to validate the performance of materials designed for indoor air purification, self-cleaning surfaces, or antibacterial materials.
We evaluate the photocatalytic capacity of materials in aqueous media, applied to the treatment of industrial wastewater, gray water, or disinfection processes.
We use customized photocatalytic reactors and analyze the removal of contaminants such as phenols, pesticides, or microorganisms. A frequent case at INFINITIA is the study of UV-activated catalysts to improve the performance of hybrid filtration systems.
Comparative and customized tests
We design customized photocatalytic tests according to specific customer objectives. This may include special conditions of humidity, pH, organic load, or lighting.
We have developed ad hoc methodologies to compare commercial materials and prototypes, selecting the most efficient ones for each application. This capability allows us to offer a consultative approach based on precise experimental results.
Applications of Photocatalysis
Photocatalysis has become a key technology for multiple industrial sectors due to its ability to remove pollutants efficiently and sustainably. Its application goes beyond the laboratory, extending to the development of innovative products, environmental treatment systems, and functional materials.
At INFINITIA, we offer solutions tailored to each sector, providing support both in the validation phase and in the design of new developments based on photocatalytic materials.
Construction industry: decontaminating and self-cleaning surfaces
Urban environments require materials capable of improving outdoor air quality and reducing infrastructure maintenance. Photocatalysis applied to coatings and paving eliminates NOx, VOCs, and accumulated organic compounds, using sunlight as an activation source.
This technology is easily integrated into ventilated facades, ceramic elements, and precast concrete.
- At INFINITIA, we evaluate TiO₂ coatings, validating their effectiveness according to ISO 22197.
- We design accelerated tests to simulate real conditions of sun exposure and environmental pollution.
- We support manufacturers in the approval of materials.
Healthcare and hospital sector: continuous disinfection without consumables
In clinical spaces, it is essential to keep surfaces decontaminated without relying on chemical agents or constant manual processes.
Photocatalysis allows passive disinfection to be achieved in the presence of ultraviolet or visible light, without generating waste or requiring consumables. This is key to reducing nosocomial infections and maintaining safer environments.
- At INFINITIA, we analyze the antibacterial activity of photocatalytic coatings applied to textiles, panels, and plastics.
- We study photocatalytic materials that allow disinfection without maintenance, ideal for hospitals and nursing homes.
- We advise on the selection of materials with lower by-product release, guaranteeing safety and effectiveness.
Industrial and wastewater treatment
Many industries face challenges in removing persistent organic compounds or emerging pollutants from their effluents. Liquid-phase photocatalysis allows these substances to be degraded using catalysts activated by UV radiation or sunlight, without the need for additional reagents.
This approach helps to comply with environmental regulations and facilitate water reuse.
- At INFINITIA, we develop photocatalytic tests to validate catalysts in water with high organic loads, variable pH, and the presence of heavy metals.
- We integrate the use of photocatalytic reactors with UV light and analytical monitoring using TOC, HPLC, or GC.
- We have collaborated with companies on solutions for water treatment.
Indoor and industrial air purification
Controlling VOCs, odors, and microorganisms in enclosed spaces is essential to ensure people’s well-being and the quality of processes. The integration of photocatalytic materials in air conditioning systems, purifiers, or interior coatings offers a continuous, efficient, and low-maintenance solution.
- At INFINITIA, we perform standardized tests under controlled conditions of temperature, flow, and simulated contaminants.
- We evaluate filters with TiO₂ and ZnO coatings against compounds such as formaldehyde, toluene, and ammonia.
- We collaborate in the development of compact devices for air conditioning with integrated photocatalytic function.
Clean and efficient solutions thanks to photocatalysis
Photocatalysis is a strategic tool for developing sustainable, high-performance solutions in industrial sectors where pollutant removal, disinfection without consumables, and water and air treatment are key priorities.
At INFINITIA, we offer a comprehensive technical service ranging from experimental design and specialized consulting to the execution of photocatalysis tests under regulations or customized protocols. Thanks to our ability to adapt tests to real needs, we help companies validate innovative products and meet the most demanding standards on the market.
Having an expert team like INFINITIA guarantees not only the correct characterization of photocatalytic materials, but also a deep understanding of their functionality in real-world conditions. We evaluate the photocatalytic activity of materials based on TiO₂, ZnO, SiO₂, and other semiconductors, both in liquid applications and on surfaces and devices for environmental treatment.
Looking ahead, photocatalysis will continue to gain prominence thanks to the drive for sustainability, environmental regulation, and the need for low-energy solutions.
In this context, collaborating with INFINITIA can make all the difference for companies seeking to stand out through technological innovation. Our scientific, rigorous, and industry-tailored approach will help you maximize the value of your photocatalytic materials and processes.
