SELF-CLEANING CEMENTITIOUS COMPOSITES: CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

Self-cleaning cementitious composites are one of the most functional building materials that have recently gained significant importance in order to enhance the aesthetic durability, environmental characteristics and service life of building and infrastructure. The materials are intended to prevent dust, organic impurities, dirt and airborne contaminants from settling on open surfaces by photocatalytic or superhydrophobic effect or by a combination of both effects. Recent developments have been based on the introduction of nanomaterials (titanium dioxide, silica-based modifier, and surface treatment) in cement-based matrices, which are not only mechanically strong but also active on the surface. Even with laboratory success, there are the challenges of durability, cost, dependence on weather conditions, compatibility with existing construction practices, as well as long-term maintenance performance that yet to be overcome in practice. The field is shifting from proof-of-concept research to optimization for real-world applications, notably in facades, pavements, tunnels and urban air-purifying structures. This paper summarizes the latest advances in SCCs, highlights the significant technical and practical challenges, and outlines potential future prospects for increased use. The development of materials, standard testing procedures, and life-cycle assessment will be essential to making these new composites a viable construction option, it's claimed.