Quantum vs Nano TiO2 Photocatalysis Technology

Titanium Dioxide has been known to function as a photocatalyst since the 1920s. But it wasn’t until the 1970s when interests in this property were once again revived that the compound began to be utilized in environmental purification and other antimicrobial or self-cleaning uses. These initial endeavors left much to be desired, with specific concerns regarding the harsh criteria needed for the photocatalyst to activate. 

In an effort to resolve this issue and to improve the effects of the photocatalyst, a new technique employing nano-sized (~100nm) was discovered. This new nanotechnology allows the photocatalyst process to activate under any light energy, expanding the applications of the technology. However, for airDefender®, this still wasn’t enough. At airDefender, we could see the potential in the technology, but it wasn’t ready for mainstream applications. It wasn’t ready for the common consumer.

Through airDefender’s decade-long research, we have successfully developed Q-dot, a photocatalyst technique that revolves around quantum-sized particles (1.8-4nm) which further enhances the photocatalyst’s antimicrobial and self-cleaning properties. Compared to ordinary photocatalyst (particle-size >100nm) and traditional nano photocatalyst, airDefender’s Q-dot doesn’t require any light to maintain its reaction cycle, enabling all properties to activate even in full darkness. Moreover, the smaller size of the nanoparticles in the Qdot technology results in higher adherence to surfaces and more points of contact for potential microbial or environmental contamination, thereby increasing the microbial and stain elimination ability of the technology and any products employing the technology.