self cleaning glass

[Prometheus The Supremo]

Self-cleaning glass
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


Self-cleaning glass is a new technology for glass production that allows glass to self-clean. The process is two step: Firstly, UV rays in sunlight break down organic dirt which is on the glass and makes the glass surface become 'hydrophilic'. This method of 'photocatalysis' can even work on cloudy days, as there are still UV rays present. During the hydrophilic process, the glass creates a film with rainwater and the rain then washes the dirt away in a sheeting action that allows for minimal water marks.

Pilkington Activâ„¢ was the world's first self-cleaning glass to enter the market, created by Pilkington.

http://www.pilkingtonselfcleaningglass.co.uk/


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that's pretty cool. does anyone know if this technology is being used in toronto?

 

[AlvinofDiaspar]

I think it's been around for a year or two - I think they use TiO2 as the catalytic agent.

Not sure if there are any applications of this material in Toronto (doubtful) - but I've heard it being used in Japan.

A similiar principle was used in the concrete for Richard Meier's Church of Year 2000 in Rome.

Here is a presentation from AIA that provides more info on photocatalysis:

http://www.aia.org/SiteObjects/files/convention_ces/FR3307.pdf

AoD

 

[AndreaPalladio]

Did this have it's origins in Julia Child's reference to her self cleaning floor on one of her tv shows, that prompted so many calls to WGBH from people wanting to get one for themselves that she had to say on the next show that she was joking?