Air pollution from traffic is a growing problem, especially in urban areas. In recent years the use of titanium dioxide (TiO2) based photocatalytic self-cleaning and de-polluting materials has been considered to remove these pollutants. TiO2 is now commercially available and used in construction material or paints for environmental purposes. Further work, however, is still required to clarify the potential impacts from wider TiO2 use. Specific test conditions are required to provide objective and accurate knowledge.

The aim of the LIFE PHOTOCITYTEX project is to assess the effectiveness of using TiO2-based photocatalytic nanomaterials in building textiles as a way of improving air quality in urban areas. Moreover, information on secondary products formed during the tests will be obtained, yielding a better overall understanding of the whole process and its implications.