Ultrafine TiO2 is a well known photocatalyst which, when activated by UV light, catalyzes the oxidation of organic species in water or in gas streams. The immobilization of high surface area TiO2 (anatase) on an efficient and inexpensive substrate would significantly expand its use for detoxification purposes. Existing substrates, such as glass fibers and beads, present technical and/or economic drawbacks. SELEE Corporation proposes the development of a UV transparent glass or fused silica open cell foam as TiO2 substrate. The foam struts would be either dense or porous, depending on the firing temperature. The main advantages would be low manufacturing cost, high catalytic activity due to the high surface area, durability, and low resistance to liquid or gas flow.
