Passive sampling for air quality assessment: proposal of an in-situ method to measure the efficiency of photocatalytic pavements

Abstract

Currently, air pollution is a matter of great relevance due to its significant impact on human health. Semiconductor photocatalysis technology, known for its high efficiency and low environmental degradation, is considered a highly promising means to improve air quality. Asphalt pavements are commonly used in urban areas with high population concentrations. During the production cycle of these pavements, various air pollutants are emitted, primarily due to the high temperatures required for asphalt pavement. Photocatalysis using the semiconductor TiO2 has the capacity to degrade atmospheric NO under sunlight, which has sparked significant interest in photocatalysis technology and its applications.The bandgap, enduring physicochemical properties of the element, and its nontoxicity, along with its NO degradation capabilities, make TiO2 a highly viable option for photocatalysis. This study aims to elucidate how air quality is controlled through passive sampling for the quantification of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the atmosphere. Through this technique, it is possible to quantify the level of pollutants, in this case, NO2, present in the atmosphere at a selected location over a certain period of time.