TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite aerogel loaded in melamine-impregnated paper for multi-functionalization: Formaldehyde degradation and smoke suppression

A raw decorative paper was coated with a mixture of TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite aerogel and melamine-formaldehyde resin to achieve dual functions, namely formaldehyde degradation and smoke suppression. The physical and chemical structure of TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite aerogel and its photocatalytic activity on liquid formaldehyde degradation were revealed. Moreover, the coated melamine-impregnated paper was further decorated into the surface of a poplar wood veneer to prepare a real indoor panel. A self-designed sealed box and cone calorimeter were used to test its photocatalytic activity on gaseous formaldehyde degradation and smoke suppression. The results showed that the presence of massive mesopores in TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite aerogel and the appearance of anatase nanocrystal of TiO2 synergistically lead to both the high liquid and gaseous formaldehyde degradation rates of 65.8% and 56.6%. In addition, the porous structure and incombustibility of TiO2-SiO2 nanocomposite aerogel also result in high smoke suppression, demonstrating the maximum decrease in CO and CO2 production by 56.2% and 33.2%. The preparation process of the coated melamine-impregnated paper is easy to realize industrial production. After decorated into the surface of wood-based panels, it can be used as the indoor materials of wall, floor, and furniture.