Functionalized cements incorporated with nanocomposite photocatalysts for self-cleaning applications

The constantly escalating pollution on the surface of cement-based materials affects architectural aesthetics and residents′ health, necessitating frequent cleaning and maintenance, which contradicts the concept of sustainable development. This study aimed to develop a novel photocatalytic cement material to enhance the self-cleaning capabilities of cement-based materials, thereby extending their service life and reducing maintenance costs. To achieve this, carbon quantum dots (CDs) and g-C3N4 (CN) nanocomposite photocatalysts (CDs@CN) were synthesized and integrated into white cement to prepare photocatalytic cements. The materials were characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ultraviolet–visible–near infrared (UV–Vis–NIR) spectroscopy. Photocatalytic performance was evaluated by the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under xenon (Xe) lamp, Vis light and UV light. The CDs@CN nanocomposite displayed superior photocatalytic activity, particularly under Xe lamp irradiation, achieving over 95 % degradation of RhB within 1 h. Even under Vis and UV light, the photocatalytic cement retains robust self-cleaning capabilities, achieving pollutant degradation rates of 81 % and 63 %, respectively, within 1 h. This performance exceeded that of pristine CN and control samples, demonstrating effective light absorption and charge separation. The optimal photocatalyst concentration in cement was identified as 0.1∼5.0 wt%, balancing performance and dispersion. The developed CDs@CN-based photocatalytic cement material offers a sustainable solution for self-cleaning and environmental purification. This study provides insights into the design of functional cementitious materials and contributes to the sustainable development of the construction industry. •The integration of CDs@CN nanocomposite into cement significantly boosts self-cleaning capabilities.•The photocatalytic cement shows over 95 % degradation of Rhodamine B under Xenon lamps within an hour.•The study supports sustainable construction by reducing maintenance needs and extending building lifespans.