Formaldehyde off-gases from chipboard, varnishes, adhesives and carpet backing, reaching 50–200 µg/m³ in newly fitted lobbies against a safe limit of 10 µg/m³. Photocatalytic purification decomposes CH₂O into water and CO₂ on contact with a TiO₂ coating in the presence of UV light. Efficiency: 85–95% in a single air pass through the catalytic module. For reception areas this is a solution that works continuously and silently. The technology is certified to ISO 22197 and recommended by the WHO for premises with elevated air quality requirements, including medical facilities and nurseries.
Photocatalysis Principle
Anatase-phase titanium dioxide (TiO₂) irradiated with UV-A (365 nm) generates electron-hole pairs that react with oxygen and moisture. Hydroxyl radicals •OH are formed — the strongest oxidisers, breaking formaldehyde down to CO₂ and H₂O within 0.5–2 seconds of contact.
The catalyst is not consumed: TiO₂ coating retains activity for 10–15 years. UV-LED sources (3–5 W per module) last 50,000 hours. No by-products — the reaction is entirely 'green'. Benzene, toluene, xylene and other VOCs are decomposed in parallel.
Lobby Integration Options
Ceiling panels: TiO₂ coating applied to a 600×600 mm aluminium or glass substrate. UV-LED strip mounted around the perimeter. Air passes by natural convection or via a 10–20 m³/h fan. Module is silent (under 20 dB).
In-duct cassette modules: a 300×300 mm cassette block installs in the supply duct. Throughput: 200–500 m³/h. Formaldehyde removal: 85–95%. Benzene removal: 70–85%. Flow resistance: under 30 Pa. For a 100 m² lobby, 2–3 cassettes suffice.
For VIP reception areas, decorative photocatalytic panels with natural stone or wood texture are available. Visually indistinguishable from standard finishes, they continuously purify air within a 2–3 metre radius. The technology is certified to ISO 22197 for commercial indoor environments.
Pricing and Maintenance
600×600 mm ceiling panel with TiO₂ and UV-LED: from $120. 300×300 mm duct cassette: from $180. Complete system for a 100 m² lobby (ceiling + duct): from $2,800. Installation: 1–2 working days.
Maintenance: UV-LED replacement every 5–7 years (module cost: $25). Annual rinse of catalytic panels (water only, no chemicals). TiO₂ coating requires no replacement over its entire service life. Warranty: 5 years.