Ranjit K. Nath

Artificial Photosynthesis using LiNbO3 as Photocatalyst for Sustainable and Environmental Friendly Construction and Reduction of Global Warming: A Review

Artificial photosynthesis using LiNbO3 as a photocatalyst has emerged as an important technology leading to the formation of eco-friendly end products. An interesting part of this technology is its ability to directly convert pollutants into the harmless substances in the contaminant source. This technology possesses enormous potential for the reduction of “global warming.” This article reviews recent developments and future potential applications of this emerging technology and provides information on the parameters that control its process. The effects of the photosynthetic reaction of LiNbO3 on cementations materials and indoor air conditioning are also reviewed in this article.

LiNbO3 Coating on Concrete Surface: A New and Environmentally Friendly Route for Artificial Photosynthesis

The addition of a photocatalyst to ordinary building materials such as concrete creates environmentally friendly materials by which air pollution or pollution of the surface can be diminished. The use of LiNbO3 photocatalyst in concrete material would be more beneficial since it can produce artificial photosynthesis in concrete. In these research photoassisted solid-gas phases reduction of carbon dioxide (artificial photosynthesis) was performed using a photocatalyst, LiNbO3, coated on concrete surface under illumination of UV-visible or sunlight and showed that LiNbO3 achieved high conversion of CO2 into products despite the low levels of band-gap light available. The high reaction efficiency of LiNbO3 is explained by its strong remnant polarization (70 µC/cm2), allowing a longer lifetime of photoinduced carriers as well as an alternative reaction pathway. Due to the ease of usage and good photocatalytic efficiency, the research work done showed its potential application in pollution prevention.

Mixed Photocatalyst for Sustainable Concrete Construction

An innovative approach to the material science has demonstrated that photocatalytic activity may be conferred to cement-based construction materials, such as concrete, mortars, paints, etc. Photocatalyst is needed for a cleaner environment and a better quality of life that leads to thoughts of a more eco-compatable use of light. Addition of photocatalytic materials to the RC structure during its construction phase could reduce the corrosion problem of RC materials. This material hinders calcium oxide to form acidic compound. In this study, cement-based mixed photocatalytic material has been presented, which would adjustable with RC material for enhancing oxidization process and reducing corrosion problem.