A new generation of anti-pollution, anti-virus and self-cleaning ceramic,
When we envision an architectural project, it is crucial to go beyond mere aesthetics and consider all aspects of our material decisions.
The spaces in which we live, work and interact should not only be visually pleasing, but also contribute to our safety and comfort.
What if, in addition, they could improve air quality and reduce the amount of pathogens on surfaces?
This is why material selection plays an essential role, and architects and specifiers need to strive to gain as much knowledge as possible about the materials and systems they are incorporating into their projects.
Iris Ceramica Group, an Italian company with a history spanning more than 60 years, has introduced a ceramic material known as Active Surfaces®
Which seeks to revolutionize the way we deal with surfaces.
Designed and produced in Italy, these ceramic plates offer innovation, sustainability and beauty.
This technology includes four exceptional characteristics necessary to create healthy, clean and safe spaces:
Anti-bacterial and anti-viral:
These surfaces can eliminate up to 99% of bacteria, including common strains such as E. coli and even antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Such as Staphylococcus aureus MRSA. They also demonstrate significant antiviral activity, including against pandemic influenza strains H1N1 and H3N2, enterovirus 71, and even the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19.
anti polution:
Volatile particles of hazardous pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOX) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are converted into harmless substances.
Benefiting human well-being indoors and outdoors, innovative technology makes this photocatalytic ceramic material work with any type of lighting:
Natural or artificial, including low energy LEDs.
Fight bad odors:
The technology effectively breaks down the molecules responsible for unpleasant odors, making any environment more pleasant by keeping the air clean and fresh.
Self-cleaning:
The technology not only prevents dirt from adhering to materials, but also makes surfaces easier to clean, reducing the need for harsh cleaners and reducing maintenance costs.
Surfaces can be cleaned simply with water and mild detergent, and on exterior facades, for example,
rain contact with porcelain panels is sufficient to keep them clean, significantly reducing the usual maintenance.
Transforming the Cattolica Waterfront through integration, environmental sustainability and innovation
The Rasi Spinelli waterfront renovation project in Cattolica, Italy, led by Studio Medaarch, aims to integrate sea, beach and city,
Integrating green spaces and social networking areas while respecting the local historical and architectural identity.
The project extends over an area of approximately 800 meters and 20 meters wide, and a unified view of the skyline was sought thanks to the coordinated materials and level layout of the roads, walkways and bicycle paths.
The use of Active Surfaces® technology covers approximately 10,000 square meters and not only contributes to its aesthetic continuity, but also ensures the environmental sustainability and health benefits of this outdoor environment.
As we saw previously, the material, when exposed to light (natural or artificial) and moisture present in the air, is able to eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and unpleasant odors.
It prevents the formation of pollutant particles and stops dirt. In addition to these four main long-lasting actions, ceramic is also environmentally friendly:
It is made from 40% recycled materials, is 100% recyclable and is produced in factories with zero VOC emissions.
The science behind active surfaces
This innovation is due to photocatalysis, a process that harnesses the power of light to initiate chemical reactions.
Developed in partnership with the Department of Chemistry at the University of Milan, these surfaces work even in the absence of direct light.
Surfaces come in a variety of colours, thicknesses and shapes, ensuring they meet all design requirements.
They come in a variety of colors and thicknesses from 6mm to 12mm, as well as a variety of shapes,
From the most classic panels to large panels of 100 x 300cm, 150 x 300cm and 328 x 154cm.
By combining innovation, science and creativity, these Italian-made ceramic surfaces have redefined the concept of surface materials.
As we navigate an ever-changing world, they stand as a shining example of how design and technology can work together to serve humanity while preserving our natural environment.