Performance of self-cleaning mortar using Tio2

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18265/2447-9187a2026id9174

Keywords:

building facades, mortars, photocatalysis, self-cleaning, titanium dioxide

Abstract

Building facades suffer degradation due to environmental factors, leading to aesthetic issues like staining. This study investigated self-cleaning mortars produced by the surface application of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) suspensions. The mortar was prepared with a 1:1:6 volumetric ratio (cement: lime: sand) and a water/binder ratio of 0.125 (considering sand moisture). To confer self-cleaning properties, aqueous suspensions of TiO₂ were applied to the surface at concentrations of 1%, 5%, and 10%. Tests included fresh state characterization and hardened state mechanical properties. Stain removal efficiency was evaluated under natural weathering for 90 days, testing different orientations (north, south, east, west, horizontal) and staining agents. An Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to identify the most influential factors. Results showed that the mortar met normative requirements for consistency and density. In the hardened state, it achieved an average compressive strength of 14.07 MPa. Statistical analysis revealed that surface orientation and TiO₂ concentration significantly influenced performance. The best stain removal was observed on horizontal surfaces and north-facing facades, where UV activation was maximized. Higher TiO₂ concentrations (5% and 10%) were more effective, particularly for removing organic stains like coffee and ash. The study concludes that surface-applied TiO₂ effectively promotes self-cleaning without compromising the mortar’s mechanical properties.

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Published

2026-07-03

Issue

Vol. 63 (2026)

Section

Engenharias II - Engenharia de Materiais

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Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Clara Monteiro de Siqueira, Stéphanie Pires Rodrigues, Michel Henry Bacelar de Souza, Márcia Matiko Kondo, Vander Alkmin dos Santos Ribeiro, Valquiria Claret dos Santos

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How to Cite

SIQUEIRA, A. C. M. DE et al. Performance of self-cleaning mortar using Tio2 . Revista Principia, v. 63, 3 July2026.