A chemical compound that catalyzes the break down of pollutants into less harmful chemicals is finally finding its way into cities around the world. The compound, TX Active, which has been in development for over ten years, breaks down organic carcinogens like benzene, converts carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide, and breaks down nitric oxides into nitrogen and oxygen. TX Active is a type of titanium photocatalyst that pushes overly active molecules into less energetic states with energy provided by the light of the sun.

The greater the surface area of TX Active, the more pollutants it can break down. So how do we spread this stuff all over the world?  The answer: Mix it in with concrete, paint, or window laminate. Cities all of Europe are using the compound in roads, parking lots and paint and have measured drops in pollutants of up to 60%.

The substance is surprisingly cheap, adding only about $160 to the cost of paint for a five story building, which could be more than offset by minor government payback programs.

It's not a replacement for catalytic converters and clean fuels, it's an extra step that will make the world a much cleaner place.

 

Via BuisnessWeek