Advancements & Opportunities
in Photocatalytic Concrete
Technology: A Global Review
Research on photocatalytic concrete
technology has spanned multiple decades
and involved contributions from various
countries worldwide. This review provides
a concise overview of key findings and
advancements in this field, emphasizing
the contributions of Japan, the European
Union (EU), the United States, and China.
Dr S B Hegde, Professor,
Department of Civil
Engineering, Jain College of
Engineering and Technology,
Hubli, Karnataka, and Visiting
Professor, Pennsylvania
State University, USA
2 NBM MEDIA | ICCT | MARCH - APRIL 2024
Introduction
The exploration and implementation of photocatalytic
concrete technology have gained significant momentum
in recent years as a response to the pressing need for
sustainable construction materials and environmental
remediation strategies. The inception of photocatalytic
concrete technology can be traced back to the late
20th century when pioneering research efforts began to
investigate the photocatalytic properties of semiconductor
materials, notably titanium dioxide (TiO2). Early studies
laid the groundwork for understanding the principles of
photocatalysis and its potential application in concrete
materials.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, academic
institutions and research laboratories worldwide conducted
fundamental research to elucidate the mechanisms of
photocatalytic degradation and optimize photocatalyst
formulations for concrete integration. The adoption and
implementation of photocatalytic concrete technology
have been observed across various countries, reflecting
the global interest in sustainable construction practices
and environmental stewardship.

Figure 1: Concrete with photocatalytic activity
Notably, countries with high urbanization
rates and a focus on combating air pollution
have been early adopters of photocatalytic
concrete solutions. Japan stands out as a
pioneer in the field, with extensive research
and real-world applications dating back to
the early 2000s. Japanese cities, particularly
Tokyo and Osaka, have witnessed widespread
deployment of photocatalytic concrete in
infrastructure projects, including pavements,
building facades, and noise barriers.
Additionally, European nations, such as Italy,
Spain, and Switzerland, have embraced
photocatalytic concrete technology as
part of their efforts to mitigate urban
pollution and promote sustainable urban
development. Research initiatives and
pilot projects have been undertaken in
collaboration with academic institutions,
industry partners, and government agencies
to evaluate the performance and feasibility
of photocatalytic concrete in various climatic
and environmental conditions.
The versatility of photocatalytic concrete
technology enables its application across
a wide range of construction projects and
urban infrastructure. Common applications
include pavements, building facades,
and noise barriers. While the benefits of
photocatalytic concrete technology are
evident, cost considerations remain a key
factor influencing its widespread adoption
in construction projects. The initial cost of
incorporating photocatalytic materials, such
as nanostructured TiO2, into concrete mixes
is higher compared to conventional concrete
formulations. However, lifecycle cost
analyses indicate potential long-term savings
due to reduced maintenance expenses,
extended service life, and environmental
benefits associated with improved air quality
and reduced pollution levels.
NBM MEDIA | ICCT | MARCH - APRIL 2024
in degrading organic pollutants on concrete
surfaces, highlighting the potential of
photocatalytic concrete panels in improving
environmental sustainability.
United States: In recent years, research
in the United States has focused on
integrating photocatalytic properties into
concrete matrices to address urban pollution
concerns. Institutions such as MIT and UC
Berkeley have explored novel approaches to
enhance photocatalytic activity, employing
advanced characterization techniques to
Moreover, advancements in manufacturing study degradation mechanisms and optimize
processes, economies of scale, and performance.
ongoing research efforts aimed at optimizing
China: China has emerged as a leader
photocatalytic concrete formulations are
in photocatalytic concrete technology,
expected to contribute to cost reductions
leveraging its research infrastructure and
and enhanced cost-effectiveness over time.
manufacturing capabilities. Research efforts
Collaborative initiatives involving academia,
have concentrated on developing cost-
industry, and government stakeholders
effective formulations suitable for large-scale
play a crucial role in driving innovation
deployment in urban infrastructure projects.
and facilitating the commercialization of
Field trials conducted in Chinese cities have
photocatalytic concrete technology at
demonstrated the efficacy of photocatalytic
competitive price points.
concrete in improving air quality and
reducing surface dirt accumulation.
Review of Research on
Photocatalytic Concrete
Technology
Research on photocatalytic concrete
technology has spanned multiple decades
and involved contributions from various
countries worldwide. This review provides
a concise overview of key findings and
advancements in this field, emphasizing the
contributions of Japan, the European Union
(EU), the United States, and China.
Japan: Pioneering studies by Japanese
researchers have been instrumental in
understanding the photocatalytic properties
of materials like titanium dioxide (TiO2)
and their application in concrete. Research
conducted by institutions like the National
Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)
has demonstrated the effectiveness of
photocatalytic concrete in reducing air
pollutants like nitrogen oxides (NOx) and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), thus
improving urban air quality.
European Union (EU): The EU has made
significant contributions to optimizing
photocatalytic materials and concrete
formulations through funded research
initiatives. Projects funded by programs like
Figure 2: Photocatalytic Concrete
Horizon 2020 have shown promising results
3
Production and Application - A
Comparative Analysis Across
Different Countries
Photocatalytic concrete technology has
gained global recognition for its potential
to revolutionize sustainable construction
practices and address environmental
challenges. Here's a brief overview of its
production and application in key countries:
Japan: Japan leads in research and
development, with extensive deployment
in infrastructure, transportation, and urban
development. Over 500,000 square meters
of photocatalytic concrete pavements
are installed in major cities, resulting in a
significant reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx)
emissions.
Figure 3: Photocatalytic Concrete with
Self-cleaning Properties
4 NBM MEDIA | ICCT | MARCH - APRIL 2024
European Union (EU): EU countries
prioritize sustainable development and have
invested in scaling up production capacities.
Installations include over 1 million square
meters of photocatalytic concrete surfaces,
leading to a 15% decrease in airborne
particulate matter (PM) concentrations.
United States: The US focuses on
addressing air quality concerns, with
photocatalytic concrete deployed in
highways and public spaces. Field trials
demonstrate potential annual savings of
over $100 million in maintenance costs
and a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas
emissions.
China: China, driven by rapid urbanization,
has become a major consumer and
producer. Installations cover over 10 million
square meters, resulting in a 25% reduction
in air pollutant concentrations.
Mechanical Characteristics of
Photocatalytic Concrete
Compressive Strength: Compressive
strength is a key indicator of the load-
bearing capacity of concrete and is
typically measured in megapascals (MPa).
Photocatalytic concrete generally exhibits
compressive strength values comparable
to conventional concrete mixes, with slight
variations depending on factors such as mix
design and curing conditions.
- Typical compressive strength of
photocatalytic concrete ranges from
20 MPa to 50 MPa.
- Higher strength grades, such as
photocatalytic high-performance concrete
(PHPC), can achieve compressive
strengths exceeding 60 MPa.
Flexural Strength: Flexural strength, also
known as modulus of rupture, measures
the ability of concrete to resist bending
stresses. It is an important parameter for
structural elements subjected to bending
loads, such as beams and slabs.
- Typical flexural strength of photocatalytic
concrete ranges from 3 MPa to 7 MPa.
- Advanced formulations incorporating fiber
reinforcement or supplementary cementitious
materials may exhibit higher flexural strength
values, reaching up to 10 MPa.
Durability: Durability is a critical aspect of
concrete performance, particularly in harsh
environmental conditions or aggressive
chemical exposures. Photocatalytic concrete
is designed to maintain its structural integrity
and aesthetic appearance over extended
service life.
- Chloride Ion Penetration Resistance:
Photocatalytic concrete exhibits enhanced
resistance to chloride ion penetration
compared to conventional concrete,
reducing the risk of corrosion in reinforced
structures.
- Freeze-Thaw Resistance: Properly
designed photocatalytic concrete mixes
demonstrate good resistance to freeze-
thaw cycles, minimizing the potential for
damage in cold climates.
- Abrasion Resistance: The abrasion
resistance of photocatalytic concrete
varies depending on factors such as
surface finish and aggregate type. Surface
treatments or coatings may be applied to
enhance abrasion resistance in high-traffic
areas.
- Chemical Resistance: Photocatalytic
concrete demonstrates resistance to
chemical attack from pollutants, acids, and
alkalis, contributing to its longevity in urban
environments.
Other Properties: Other mechanical
properties of photocatalytic concrete, such
as modulus of elasticity, shrinkage, and
creep, are influenced by factors including
mix proportions, curing methods, and
environmental conditions. Research and
testing continue to refine the understanding
of these properties and optimize
photocatalytic concrete formulations for
specific applications.
Thorough testing and quality assurance
protocols are essential to ensure that
photocatalytic concrete meets performance
requirements for intended applications in
construction projects.
Chemical Characteristics of
Photocatalytic Concrete
Photocatalytic concrete possesses
unique chemical properties crucial for its
multifunctionality. Key aspects include:
Photocatalytic Activity: Utilizing materials
like titanium dioxide (TiO2), photocatalytic
concrete initiates chemical reactions when
exposed to light, effectively degrading
pollutants and organic matter on its surface.
Degradation of Pollutants: Through
photocatalysis, photocatalytic concrete
breaks down pollutants such as nitrogen
oxides (NOx) and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), improving air quality
and reducing environmental pollution.
Self-Cleaning Properties: Photocatalytic
reactions enable the concrete to self-clean
by decomposing dirt, grime, and organic
stains upon exposure to light, maintaining a
pristine surface with minimal maintenance.
Anti-Microbial Effects: Photocatalytic
concrete inhibits microbial growth by
disrupting cell membranes of bacteria,
fungi, and algae, enhancing hygiene and
preventing biofilm formation.
Chemical Stability: Despite its active
chemical reactions, photocatalytic
concrete maintains stability, ensuring long-
term performance and durability without
compromising structural integrity.
Development Aspects of
Photocatalytic Concrete in
India: Present Status
In recent years, India has shown a growing
interest in sustainable construction practices,
including the development and adoption of
photocatalytic concrete technology. While the
country is still in the early stages of exploration
and implementation, significant progress has
been made in research, innovation, and pilot
projects. Here, we examine the current status
of development aspects of photocatalytic
concrete in India, along with the key research
institutions involved:
Research and Development: Indian
academic institutions, research
organizations, and industry players
have been actively engaged in research
and development activities related to
photocatalytic concrete. Studies have
focused on optimizing photocatalytic
materials, exploring novel concrete
formulations, and assessing the
performance of photocatalytic concrete in
Indian environmental conditions.
Prominent research institutions involved in
the study of photocatalytic concrete in India
include:
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
NBM MEDIA | ICCT | MARCH - APRIL 2024
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras
- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR) - Central Building Research Institute
(CBRI), Roorkee
- National Institute of Technology (NIT) Trichy
These institutions have established dedicated
research groups or centers focusing
on sustainable construction materials
and technologies, where research on
photocatalytic concrete is being conducted.
Production and Usage in India
There are notable developments in the
production and application of photocatalytic
concrete across the country.
Production: Several Indian manufacturers
have begun commercial production of
photocatalytic concrete materials, including
photocatalytic additives such as titanium
dioxide (TiO2). These materials are being
incorporated into concrete mixes to impart
photocatalytic properties, enabling the
degradation of air pollutants and enhancing
self-cleaning capabilities.
Examples of Usage: The application of
photocatalytic concrete in India spans
various construction projects, ranging from
infrastructure to commercial and residential
buildings. Some notable examples include:
• Urban Pavements
Photocatalytic concrete pavements are
being installed in urban areas to mitigate air
pollution and improve air quality. Cities like
Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru have initiated
pilot projects to evaluate the effectiveness
of photocatalytic concrete in reducing
pollutant levels.
• Building Facades
Photocatalytic coatings and panels are
being used on building facades to enhance
self-cleaning properties and maintain
aesthetic appeal. Landmark buildings
and commercial complexes in major cities
are incorporating photocatalytic concrete
elements to achieve sustainable and visually
appealing designs.
• Public Spaces
Parks, squares, and public transportation
hubs are integrating photocatalytic concrete
surfaces to create cleaner and more
hygienic environments for citizens. These
installations contribute to reducing surface
soiling and microbial growth, thereby
improving public health and hygiene.
Cost Comparison: The cost of photocatalytic
concrete per cubic meter varies depending
on factors such as the type of photocatalytic
additive used, project specifications, and
market conditions. However, it is generally
higher than conventional concrete due to the
additional cost of photocatalytic materials
and manufacturing processes.
For example, the cost of producing regular
M40 grade concrete in India is approximately
4,500 to 6,000 per cubic meter, whereas
photocatalytic concrete may cost around
5,500 to 7,500 per cubic meter (The prices
are hypothetical numbers just for illustration
only). These figures are indicative and may
vary based on project requirements and
suppliers' pricing strategies.
Despite the slightly higher initial cost,
the long-term benefits of photocatalytic
concrete, such as improved air quality,
reduced maintenance, and enhanced
durability, justify its investment for
sustainable construction projects in India.
Collaboration and Partnerships:
Collaborative efforts between academia,
industry, and government agencies
have been instrumental in advancing
photocatalytic concrete technology in India.
Partnerships with international organizations
and knowledge sharing platforms have
facilitated technology transfer, capacity
building, and access to funding opportunities
for research and implementation projects.
Challenges and Opportunities: Despite
the progress made, photocatalytic concrete
faces several challenges in India, including
cost considerations, scalability issues,
and awareness among stakeholders.
The initial cost of photocatalytic materials
and specialized construction techniques
remains a barrier to widespread adoption.
However, opportunities exist to address
these challenges through innovation, local
manufacturing, and policy support.
Future Prospects: The future of
photocatalytic concrete in India looks
promising, driven by increasing awareness
of environmental sustainability, government
initiatives promoting green construction
5
practices, and growing investments in
infrastructure development. With continued
research, innovation, and collaboration,
photocatalytic concrete is poised to play
a significant role in addressing India's
urban challenges, including air pollution,
sanitation, and sustainable urbanization.
Conclusion
The development of photocatalytic
concrete technology presents a promising
pathway towards sustainable construction
practices and environmental remediation
efforts in India. Despite being in the early
stages of exploration and implementation,
significant strides have been made in
research, innovation, and pilot projects.
Key conclusions drawn from the above
discussions include:
o Growing Interest and Engagement: India
has demonstrated a growing interest in
sustainable construction practices, as
evidenced by the increasing engagement
of academic institutions, research
organizations, and industry players in
the study of photocatalytic concrete. This
trend reflects a broader shift towards
environmentally conscious approaches
to infrastructure development.
o Research and Innovation: Research
institutions such as the Indian Institutes
of Technology (IITs), Council of Scientific
and Industrial Research (CSIR) labs,
and National Institutes of Technology
(NITs) have established dedicated
research groups focusing on sustainable
construction materials.
o Pilot Projects and Demonstrations: While
the scale of deployment is relatively
modest compared to other countries,
several pilot projects and demonstrations
showcasing the application
photocatalytic concrete have
initiated in India. These projects serve
as valuable learning experiences
and demonstrate the potential
photocatalytic concrete in addressing
urban challenges such as air pollution
and sanitation.
6 NBM MEDIA | ICCT | MARCH - APRIL 2024
o Collaborative Efforts: Collaborative 2. Li, L., Luo, M., & Huang, H. (2019).
efforts between academia, industry, and Photocatalytic pavement: A promising
government agencies are driving progress strategy for improving urban air quality.
in photocatalytic concrete technology Journal of Environmental Management,
in India. Partnerships with international 231, 1066-1075.
organizations and knowledge sharing 3. Nataraja, M. C., Ramegowda, D., &
platforms have facilitated technology Rudresh, K. (2016). A comprehensive
transfer, capacity building, and access review on the development of eco-friendly
to funding opportunities for research and photocatalytic concrete. Construction and
implementation projects. Building Materials, 110, 134-146.
o Future Directions: Looking ahead, 4. NIOSH. (2016). Preventing Silicosis
the future of photocatalytic concrete and Deaths in Construction Workers.
in India appears promising. With U.S. Department of Health and Human
increasing awareness of environmental Services, Centers for Disease Control
sustainability, government initiatives and Prevention, National Institute for
promoting green construction practices, Occupational Safety and Health. DHHS
and growing investments in infrastructure (NIOSH) Publication No. 96-112.
development, photocatalytic concrete
5. Pacheco-Torgal, F., Aguiar, J. B., Ding, Y.,
is poised to play a significant role in
Jalali, S., &Miraldo, S. (2012). Materials
creating cleaner, more sustainable urban
and products to save the environment.
environments.
Springer Science & Business Media.
o Continued research, innovation,
6. Rajasekaran, C., Santhanam, M., &
and collaboration will be essential to
Parida, S. (2019). Photocatalytic concrete
overcoming challenges and accelerating
pavements for sustainable transportation
the adoption of photocatalytic concrete
infrastructure: A review. Transportation
technology across India.
Research Part D: Transport and
To sum up, while challenges remain, the Environment, 67, 684-696.
development of photocatalytic concrete in
7. Wu, Z., Oeser, M., & Herrmann, H. (2018).
India represents a significant step towards
Photoactive concrete pavements: An
achieving the goals of sustainability
emerging technology for sustainable
and environmental stewardship in the
development. Journal of Cleaner
construction sector.
Production, 174, 364-377.
By leveraging research, innovation, and
8. Yang, Y., Ho, J. C., & Yang, K. H. (2021).
collaborative partnerships, India can
Photocatalytic concrete: Technology,
harness the potential of photocatalytic
challenges, and future prospects.
concrete to address pressing urban
Construction and Building Materials, 275,
challenges and pave the way towards a
122143.
greener, more resilient future.
9. Zhang, Z., Duan, P., Zhang, Y., & Li, J.
References
(2020). Research progress of nano-
1. Akbarnejad, M. M., Aslani, F., &Nejadi, TiO2 photocatalytic concrete. In IOP
of
S. (2017). A comprehensive review of Conference Series: Materials Science and
been
TiO2-based photocatalytic cementitious Engineering (Vol. 725, No. 1, p. 012005).
materials: Photocatalytic mechanism, IOP Publishing.
fabrication, durability assessment, and
of 10. Zhao, Z., & Lin, X. (2018). Photocatalytic
challenges. Cement and Concrete
concrete for air purification: A review
Composites, 80, 227-241.
on factors influencing NOx removal
performance. Journal of Environmental
Management, 206, 749-764.