Application of the Photocatalytic Chemistry of Titanium Dioxide to Disinfection and the Killing of Cancer Cells

Abstract

This article will review the work that has been published on disinfection and the killing of cancer cells using photocatalytic chemistry with titanium dioxide (TiO₂). This is an application of photocatalytic chemistry that has been under active investigation since 1985. Because the nature of the research is such that it brings together disparate disciplines, this review provides background on photocatalytic chemistry, fundamental characteristics of target organisms, potential applications, and the toxicology of titanium dioxide. Literature identified in searches done through September 1998 is included.