Evaluation of formaldehyde degradation in a standardized photoreactor
Résumé
The aim of this paper is to assess the degradation of formaldehyde using various coatings, including photocatalytic dispersion. The experiments were conducted at a laboratory scale in a standardized photoreactor based on the procedure described in the ISO 22197-4 standard. Various illuminations conditions were explored: UV and visible light. The dispersions tested were applied to common building materials using a coating method. The abatement values were determined by high performance liquid chromatography according to ISO 16000-3 standard. Results showed that parameters such as nature of substrate, type of dispersion and product layer thickness on surface played an important role. Moreover, formaldehyde adsorption on substrate was observed. This phenomenon was far from being negligible and contributed to decrease formaldehyde concentration. Limiting the amount of formaldehyde in indoor environment is a necessary priority for the modern society as this gas known as being carcinogen diminishes the life quality of occupants and poses serious health risks.