Russian scientists develop materials to purify atmosphere after man-made disasters

Scientists at Tomsk State University (TSU) have developed composite materials capable of rapidly neutralising toxic chemical compounds in the air following industrial accidents and man-made disasters. The information was published on the official website of the university.

One of the developments is a composite material that includes aluminium nanoparticles, metal oxides, and biocidal components such as iodine.

Experiments have shown that this composite can be effectively used in the creation of aerosols designed to inactivate harmful biological agents released into the atmosphere. The innovation helps to reduce the impact of dangerous microorganisms on humans and the environment.

Another scientific breakthrough concerns a new photocatalytic material that breaks down toxic chemical compounds. Under ultraviolet radiation, it neutralises up to 85 per cent of harmful substances in less than two minutes. The technology uses titanium dioxide nanoparticles and their composite with silver.

The project on new composites is being carried out by the Research Laboratory of High-Energy and Special Materials of TSU, based at the university’s scientific centre.

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