There has been a move towards creating paints that are Eco-friendly. These are actually designed to reduce levels of NOx within the atmosphere. The paint contains nano-particles of titanium dioxide and calcium carbonate. These particles absorb ultra-violet radiation and they use this energy to convert NOx into nitric acid. This can then be either washed away by the rain or neutralised by the calcium carbonate particles. The UK manufacturers of Eco-Paint claim that a coating of the paint will continue to be effective for five years in a heavily polluted city.

Paints have three constituents; pigment for colour, a binding substance to hold the particles of pigment together and a solvent to enable the mixture to flow freely. It is the solvents which are the main pollution concern since they were designed to evaporate and are aggressive pollutants. It has been calculated that over 500 000 tonnes of solvent are released into the atmosphere globally each year.

It is recommended that internal walls should be finished in hygroscopic emulsion paint over plaster. This ensures that excess moisture can be absorbed by the plaster and masonry wall, releasing it when the internal humidity level creates imbalance. A further benefit is that water vapour carries some gas contaminants like nitrogen oxide and formaldehydes. When the water vapour enters these hygroscopic materials, toxic chemicals may be deposited and then broken down. This renders these materials with a degree of air cleansing capacity.

Architects and designers have many new options available to them for use within their projects. New technology and research is providing solutions to many of the problems that used to be associated with pollution from the choice of paints once used. Finally, there’s at least a good place to find the professional painter of your dream if you really can’t handle this task. This site called the house directory is designed to provide you with all you need to build your house and hire only the best interior design professionals (decorators, furnishers, painters, fitters, architects and lot more).