Scientists claim new glass can clean itself

Date: 20 September 2002
Source: Ananova

Date: 20 September 2002

Scientists at Pilkington are claiming to have perfected a type of glass that cleans itself. They say Pilkington Activ uses natural daylight and rain to remove dirt without human intervention.

It works by harnessing ultra-violet rays to break down dirt on the surface.The next shower washes the windows clean without the need for detergent.

The secret lies in a coating that causes water to slide down the glass without forming into separate droplets. Pilkington also insist the glass won't need optimum weather conditions to begin working. Its photo-catalytic properties ensure UV light reacts chemically with organic deposits even when it cloudy. However the company admits stubborn deposits such as bird droppings will take longer to be broken down.

And it might need a blast from a hose in periods of low rainfall to speed things along. The company says Activ will be available in the form of double-glazed units for replacements windows. These are expected to cost 15-20% more than the usual installed cost of PVC-U windows.
600450 Scientists claim new glass can clean itself glassonweb.com

See more news about:

Others also read

MORE...

Apogee Q3 results up on architectural glass activities
Apogee Enterprises Inc. reported level sales but an increase in earnings for the third quarter of its fiscal 2003. Bloomington-based Apogee, which makes glass products and services, said the earnings increase was mainly the result of improvements in its architectural glass business.
PPG Names Wulfsohn to European Post
William A. Wulfsohn, vice president and general manager of Nylon System for Honeywell International, has been named vice president of European coatings for PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG) and managing director of PPG Europe. "Bill will play a vital role in helping our European coatings businesses achieve their full potential," said Michael A.
Bystronic acquires Armatec Vierhaus GmbH
Bystronic is to take over Armatec Vierhaus GmbH with effect from 1 January 2003. For Bystronic, a global supplier of system solutions for the manufacture of architectural and automotive glass, the takeover of Armatec, which specialises in laminated safety glass and handling systems, ideally complements the Bystronic portfolio.
Pilkington: New home for butterflies
The butterflies at Melbourne Zoo have gone upmarket with a new accommodation wing featuring Pilkington glass.
Owens-Brockway Glass Container Closes on Sale of Additional $175 Million Principal of 8-3/4% Senior Secured Notes
Owens-Brockway Glass Container Inc., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Owens-Illinois, Inc., (NYSE: OI) announced today that is has closed on the sale of $175 million principal amount of its 8-3/4% Senior Secured Notes due November 15, 2012.
Southwall Names Michael E. Seifert as Sr. Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Southwall Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: SWTX), a global developer, manufacturer and marketer of thin-film coatings for the automotive glass, electronic display and architectural markets, has named Michael E.

Add new comment