Modified TiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by a Pickering emulsions route with the use of hydrophobic (oleylamine) and hydrophilic (polyethylene glycol) organic surfactants and their combination, as well. The attachment of modifiers to the TiO2 nanoparticles was proved via FT-IR and thermal analysis. Thicker modifier layer was formed on the TiO2 surface but lower average particle size was attained when amphiphilic modification was applied that was revealed by TEM analysis and dynamic light scattering, correspondingly. The amphiphilic modification permitted control of the hydrophobic properties of the TiO2 nanoparticles so that their incorporation in cement matrix led to preparation photocatalytic cement materials with superior De-NOx efficiency. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.