Information Q & A
A description of the FN NANO® origin, science, application, and usefulness.
What is FN NANO®?
FN NANO® is a Paint Coating that is a top layer to be applied over a substrate (paint, insulation, brick, stone, wood, etc.)
A description of the FN NANO® origin, science, application, and usefulness. What is FN NANO®?
FN NANO® is a Paint Coating that is a top layer to be applied over a substrate (paint, insulation, brick, stone, wood, etc.)
FN NANO® Cleans the air from pollutants and harmful microorganisms, such as NOx, PM10, PM2.5, bacteria, viruses and volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), in addition to destroying many greenhouse gases (GHGs).
Extends the life of the underlying paint or other materials 3 to 4 times by self-cleaning the surface, protecting the surface from microorganisms and UV Light damage, and removing the many causes of erosion that normally affects things like paint and insulation.
FN NANO® is not really an Abatement or Mitigation; it is rather a Solution and Remedy, because it cleans up and rectifies the harms of pollution and climate change gases. It is an environmental REMEDY
FN® does many things and there is a strong scientific basis for this activity that is supported in this section (link).
What is the scientific basis for this activity?
“Photocatalysis” means that a reaction, or chemical change, is initiated by light. In this case, the catalyst is the Titanium Dioxide, that is the catalyst, or a semi-conductor because of how it works (with electricity) at the molecular level. Note that Titanium Dioxide or “TiO2” is the ninth most common compound on earth, and is used in food and paint; it is an inorganic and inert.
“Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a semiconductor, ultraviolet light (UV)-inducible catalyst in the photo-oxidation of organic substrates and deactivation of bacteria, algae, and viruses (Theron et al., 2008). *
In TiO2 photocatalysis, when the UV light hits the surface, the TiO2 will be activated in a way that makes it pull away electrons from other compounds that come in contact with the TiO2. In this way it will BREAK APART other compounds because they compound are held together by the shared electrons. The result is the separation into simpler compounds.
There are over 180,000 Google scholar articles with the terms Photocatalysis and Titanium-dioxide. A great amount of study has been done to learn of ways to utilize this powerful – but affordable – cleansing activity of TiO2 for air and water, and many other situations.
But only one invention has yielded attainable power in a practical form: that is FN NANO®. Why? How? The coatings clean the air by stealing electrons – yes at the molecular level – and by doing this they break down the compounds since electrons are the glue that hold them together (in “covalent” bonding). FN NANO uses titanium dioxide, an inert mineral that is also used in food. This Tio2 reacts with UV light to steal the electrons.
Link Covalent bond – Wikipedia
A covalent bond, also called a molecular bond, is a chemical bond that involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms. These electron pairs are known as shared pairs or bonding pairs, and the stable balance of attractive and repulsive forces between atoms, when they share electrons, is known as covalent bonding.
On the website I list many Google Scholar articles that are reviewing photocatalytic coatings with Ti02 and you can see that there is a lot of science available. One such research here: Fighting global warming: The potential of photocatalysis against CO2, CH4, N2O, CFCs, tropospheric O3, BC and other major contributors to climate change
Highlights:
► Photocatalysis can destroy all long-lived well mixed GHGs: CO2, CH4, N2O, CFCs, HCFCs.
► Photocatalysis can also eliminate short-lived climate forcers soot, BC, O3, NOx, SOx.
► Indoor and outdoor large-scale local pollution remediation applications are given.
► Self-cleaning coatings, paints and glass for urban use are commercially available.
► In the near future photocatalysis can help to fight global warming and climate change.”
A very important point to consider: 99% of the Tio2 photocatalytic coatings used in the listed and peer-review experiments were using the WEAKER, First Generation photocatalytic coatings and many still had positive results removing pollution and bacteria, but FN NANO is the only Second Generation of these coatings and it is so much stronger. We SHOW our tests on the websites but few others have any tests to show.
It not only cleans the air of pollutants (VOCs, NOx, Particle Matter, and many more) it also keeps the surfaces free of dirt, mold, microorganisms. It also breakdown harmful greenhouse gases like N2O and hydrofluorocarbons and replaces them with the less harmful CO2.
Thus, is it a strong, Ecological product since it is sustainable (protects the surface so paint last 3 times longer) and it cleans the air from pollutants and greenhouse gases. Its great in small homes or big arenas, airports, hospitals as well as outside on big and small building exteriors. Just 15 square meters will offset the pollution from one diesel car for at least 10 years. (Our competitor from Italy, Puretti makes the same claim but his coasting needs over 100 square meters for the same result.)
History:
Discovered in Japan 1967, while seeking to separate elements of water (H and O)The first instance of photocatalytic coatings was in Japan where Dr Kobaijashi discovered the process and the reaction of UV light taking electrons from compounds.
Principle, UV and Tio2 steal electrons from compounds, breaking the apart, dissolving them.
Scientific papers on google scholar
* https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/titanium-dioxide
To explain why FN is the best of this type…
Photocatalysis has been actively studied since the 1960s, and Photocatalytic coatings have been used in volume for the last 20 years. Japan is the most active user (70-80% of total production) since 2002 when the SARs (respiratory) infection spread through Asia and they applied this tool on exteriors and interiors.
However, all coatings that use the nano-size titanium dioxide have one main issue preventing them from exploiting the power of Tio2: they are mixed with materials like resin paints or even, cement, which BLOCKs most of the UV light from touching the nano tio2.
FN® has solved this problem but inventing – and patenting – a binder that reverses this so that the Tio2 Coats the Binder and allows the Tio2 to receive much more of the UV light.
Please see the graphical depiction of this action, below.
The ORANGE REPRESENTS THE BINDER, COVERING THE BLUE TITANIUM DIOXIDE. THIS IS THE PROBLEM WITH COMPETITOR PRODUCTS
THE FN NANO COATING ACTS IN A WAY THE THE BINDER ITSELF IS COATED WITH TITANIUM DIOXIDE AND IS INTENSELY MORE POWERFUL, AND STILL BINDS TO THE SURFACE.
The next logical question is, How much better is it?
We can quantify it by comparing it to the activity of pure, nano-sized tio2 (i.e., “P25 Anatase tio2” – meaning 25 nanometers in size).
This pure from is made so that it has the largest possible surface area at the molecular level, allowing more of the UV light to interact with it.
When we consider that this is the best possible type to react with UV light, (but impractical to apply to walls without a binder or glue), then we can say that this is the 100% strongest. The competition, mixing with paints and cement results in blocking everything and has less-than, 5% of the tio2 power.
FN NANO® is, in contrast, over 85% of the tio2 power, and up to 95% for some of the variations of FN® that are produced
How is this proven?
To answer this is quite simple: through active and persistent testing. And Advanced Materials-JTJ has over ten years of real tests:
That are done by authoritative, independent, laboratory-quality testing facilities.
That are presented on the website (when other producers rarely present data).
And, Advanced Materials-JTJ is actively working on a research project, mostly funded by the European Commission, to design a better methodology for testing of Photocatalytic coatings that will remove any doubt about the efficacy of FN®
What types of pollutants does FN NANO® remove?
In the USA, the environmental protection agency lists the most common and hazardous pollutants found in the air.
What types of test? Where can they be examined?
The most easily demonstrable, elucidating and comprehensible example tests that can examine the powers of FN NANO® are:
Test killing bacteria. FN is faster, and more sincere in its destruction of bacteria in comparison testing,
Destroying and disassembling NOx: NOx is the usual term to describe the pollutants of NO and NO2 (Nitric Oxide and Nitrogen Dioxide). FN® can destroy this in much greater quantities than any other coating, and more cheaply than any other process and as well, faster. (Note that the process is a) not a direct path to changing it to less harmful, i.e., NO can change to NO2 and eventually change into b) nitric acid (HNO3) which is neutralized when dropping to the earth. The explanation of this process is complex but this summer is accurate to the benefits of reducing NO and NO2).
~ toluene’s,
~ formaldehyde,
~ volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
~ particle matter (PM10, PM2.5)
~ polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
These tests can be found on the website of FN-NANO.com
( https://fn-nano.com/independenttesting/?lang=en)
Many tests are not yet available in English but soon will be.
###What about the ISO norms that are quoted by competition?
The ISO norms are weak. They will register “some photocatalytic reaction” which passes these tests.
This is another reason for the research work done in the EC grant mentioned above: to create are accurate tests, which can quantify (measure) the amount of pollutants removed, in real world situations, by all photocatalytic coatings.
How is FN NANO® applied in detail?
FN® coatings are all liquid applications (except for FN® Aqua, another variation in power from – which is not discussed here).
They are applied as paint is applied, although the appearance and texture is much thinner. Thus, it can be applied as paint in a spray gun, a roller, or with a brush. Application is intended to be done in three separate, thin applications (I.e., approximately 5 microns whereas a normal paint layer is approximately 15 microns in thickness).
Coverage area is explained in terms of smooth and decorative such as multi textured surfaces such as buildings designed in the early1900s.
Smooth surfaces: 1 liter is enough for 10 square meters – with three separate applications. Deeply textured surfaces: 1 liter is enough for 7 square meters
(*Each product technical sheet has varying amounts of coverage. For example, 1 liter of FN® Wood may cover up to 20 m2).
Most of FN® coatings will appear as a light dust, or powdered-sugar appearance, if not utilized with our available tints to match the underlying color. We recommend using the tints with all medium to light surfaces. Otherwise it is best to use the clear, “FN® Transparent” version so that the dark underlying color is unaffected.
FN NANO® comes in different versions. Some are self-explanatory such as FN® Wood (for keeping natural, unvarnished wood clean and protect against losing color) and FN® Transparent (for underlying paints or materials that are of a dark appearance).There is also FN® BioMax, which is a version used in hospitals and medical centers or clinics, that includes a biocide agent which is prescribed by law in many countries; it is the only one that includes a ‘chemical’, contrasting it to our other versions which are inert and non-chemical.
Most commonly purchased versions are FN® 1, FN® 2 and FN® 3.
FN® 2 is the most frequent purchase and is useful for exterior and interior walls.
FN® 1 is different in that it is made with a different binder and useful for killing mold if there is any still on the surface prior to application of FN®. Also, of note is that it useful as a first coat, to ensure that all surface materials are better protected. However, if used for 3 coatings, it is necessary to “activate it” by letting it dry and then spraying with water, lightly. This is, of course necessary inside or in very dry conditions for exterior walls.
FN® 3 is a softer, more intense coating that is intended for ceilings. It is very strong, our strongest coating. It might rub off on hands or clothing if it is used on vertical walls.
Which horizontal, vertical and angular surfaces can be applied?
Vertical walls, i.e., 90 degrees from the level surface.
Horizontal surfaces: ceilings, and rooftops.
Floors: Floors are not the intended surface. Any surface with expect abrasion is not intended.
Angular surfaces (such as roof tops, or sloping ceilings) are fine as long as the roof material is suitable (such as Terra-Cotta roof tiles, or flat industrial surfaces (that also can reflect the light).
Which horizontal, vertical and angular surfaces can be applied?
There are some very important considerations when using FN NANO®. The target surface must be cleaned very well before application, or new. The surface should be porous, such as paint, stone, wood, etc. Glass and some other surfaces are not the intended subject.
In some cases, a proper primer coating is necessary so that FN NANO® will adhere well. Some primer coatings – or surface treatment solutions – are intended to hold the loose surface materials together (such as for older buildings).
UV light is necessary for FN® to function properly. If enough sunlight is not reaching the interior walls, then additional UV lights should be applied to shine (indirectly) towards the walls. These lights can be in fluorescent, incandescent or LED from but must be close to the 365-nanometer wavelength (as should be described on the packaging).
FN NANO® must be tested on the intended surface and examined after a few days. This is the best way to determine if
The surface had not been cleaned properly
What are the advantages of FN NANO® for building developers?
FN® NANO is ideal for new developments where ecological and sustainable building techniques are highly valued. Indoor air quality, free of VOCs and normal human spread bacteria is a very strong recommendation for FN® NANO.
HVAC systems (the air conditioning systems) are also less burdened because they will have less impurities in the air to filter. This way less a) cleaning materials, b) energy and c) man-hours are used to maintain the system.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in private homes?
In homes, the value of safety and health is usually the highest. FN® will help to keep the home clean from bacteria, allergens, viruses and all of the incoming pollutants from the outdoor environment. It will as well, remove odors and keep the walls cleaner as long as the UV light is amply supplied.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in business settings?
As mentioned above noting the advantages for new developments, in FN® NANO is ideal to maintain the environment free of VOCs and normal human spread bacteria is a very strong recommendation for FN® NANO. Of special note is the office photocopier; there are many oft ignored chemicals spread in the air from this common office tool.
However, considering the ideal functioning situation of the corporate workplace, employees will experience less days away from work due to illness since infectious bacteria will be curtailed.
Again, HVAC systems (the air conditioning systems) are also less burdened because they will have less impurities in the air to filter. This way less a) cleaning materials, b) energy and c) man-hours are used to maintain the system.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in industrial factories?
Industrial situations can include an extremely wide variation of environments, but the majority will contain some form of chemical or industrial by-product pollutions (VOCs, PAHs, NOx, etc.). In the interest of employee health, it is paramount to contain these and protect the employees. Many VOCs are ignored in these spaces and should be addressed.
Again, HVAC systems (the air conditioning systems) – especially those used in industrial situations – will also less burdened because they will have less impurities in the air to filter. This way less a) cleaning materials, b) energy and c) man-hours are used to maintain the system.
Example situations include, all sorts of building materials manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, chemicals such as solvents, petro-chemicals, or medicines, etc. In addition to the product, it is important to mention the packaging of these which normally includes high amounts of VOCs from plastics wrapping, insulation, and boxing.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in the food industry?
Any food preparation facility is very concerned with the prevention of bacteria and spoilage.
FN® NANO can protect against harmful bacteria as well as mold or other microorganisms that are attracted to the fuel of food.
Also, many fruits and vegetable will exhale a gas known as ethylene in one form or another that ripens the food and can overdo the process and spoil the fruit or vegetable. FN® is also valuable to stall this process by removing ethylene from the situation.
Thus FN® is very useful in food preparation sites such as canning, packaging and restaurants, as well as storage and food collection/transport situation such as warehouses.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in large venues such as theaters, sport arenas and music halls?
Any location where large groups of people collect and meet is a breeding ground for bacteria, where the transferal is done easily. FN® is the most affordable method to keep these transferable bacteria and viruses to a minimum.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in schools?
Pupils in school, especially the more susceptible young, should have the best air at the earliest stages of life, when they are learning and growing. It cannot be stressed enough that this is a situation where FN® is useful in protection of children.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in medical clinics and hospitals?
Any medical situation opens up the chance of serious medical infection due to the exposure of unclothed individuals and internal fluids. These are locations where the ill come for treatment and thus logically, they have the most of what can cause harm. FN® NANO in the BioMax version is highly valued as the most useful and inexhaustible supply of protection against these severely harmful collections of pathogens, bacteria, viruses and infections.
What are the advantages of FN NANO® in transportation centers (train stations, airports, etc.)?
Perhaps the most unique variables found in the typical transportation building is the high number of humans passing through. It is considered second only to the venues for sports, theatre or music where high amounts of people are collected in one situation.
Of all the situations here, this is perhaps the most dangerous in our increasingly global growth and interaction. More and more travelers are increasing the risk of remote diseases spreading to new and more fertile locations. It is imperative that all tools should be used to contain what could be the next illness of epidemic proportions.
FN NANO® is the strongest known photocatalytic coating in the world.
