About Self Cleaning Glass
Self-cleaning glass has been described as an impossible dream. Yet, following an intensive research and development program by Pilkington, inventors of the universally used float glass process, and the world's leading glass manufacturer new “Pilkington Activ" does just that.
Its unique dual-action uses the forces of nature to help keep the glass free from organic dirt, giving you not only the practical benefit of less cleaning, but also clearer, better-looking windows.
Exactly what is self-cleaning glass?
Pilkington Activ is an ordinary glass with a special coating on the outside that has the unique dual-action. Once exposed to daylight, the coating chemically reacts in two ways. First, it breaks down any organic dirt deposits and second, rain water 'sheets' down the glass to wash the loosened dirt away.
Does the special coating change the glass?
From certain angles it has a slightly greater mirror effect than ordinary glass, with a faint blue tint. Otherwise, the glass is just like any other.
Can it be scratched or rubbed off?
The coating is securely bonded to the glass so it can only be affected if the surface of the glass itself is damaged; for example, by pointed objects, abrasive cleaners or steel wool. Our tests have also shown it will not flake off or discolour.
How long will it last?
Tests have shown that the coating will last as long as the glass itself.
Is it environmentally friendly?
Yes. The coating contains harmless chemical substances already found in the home, in such things as toothpaste and paint. In fact, with only small amounts of cleaning agents needed, Pilkington Activ is kinder to the environment than ordinary glass.
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The world's first self-cleaning glass.
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Works even on cloudy days and during the night.
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Breaks down and loosens even heavy soiling.
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Can be used in almost any external application.
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Will not be worn away or rubbed off.
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Lasts the lifetime of the glazing itself.
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Easily cleaned during dry spells by hosing down or wiping with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.
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Can be used in conjunction with other glass products to provide increased energy efficiency and save on heating bills.
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What do you mean by 'dual-action'?
The secret of Pilkington Activ"! lies in its special coating, which works in two stages:
Breaking down organic dirt
Using a photo catalytic process, the coating reacts with ultra-violet rays from natural daylight to break down and disintegrate organic dirt.
Washing dirt away
The second part of the process happens when rain or water hits the glass. Because Pilkington Activ is hydrophilic, instead of forming droplets the water spreads evenly over the surface, and as it runs off takes the dirt with it. Compared with conventional glass, the water also dries off very quickly and does not leave unsightly 'drying spots'.
How long does the self-cleaning operation take?
The coating works continuously, with dirt being washed away whenever it rains.
Does Pilkington Activ work straight away?
After it has been fitted, the coating on the glass takes about five days to activate itself. For the best results, after installation and initial cleaning, by the installer, the windows should be left until the coating activation period is completed before any cleaning is undertaken.
Will this process work even when the glass is very dirty?
The coating will eventually break down even heavy deposits. However, if the surface is so dirty that UV light cannot reach the glass, the self-cleaning action will not take effect. In such cases, clean the glass with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, and in a few days the process will have re-activated.
What happens if it does not rain for some time?
Normally, rainfall or hosing with water will be enough to keep your windows clean. In dry spells though, your windows can be washed off with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.
What about cloudy days and at night?
The coating needs only a small amount of UV radiation to activate the coating, so it works on overcast days and the water sheeting effect will last through the night.
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Can be laminated or toughened to give increased safety, security and/or acoustic performance.
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Created and manufactured by the world's leading glass producer - Pilkington.
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Source www.pilkington.com
Pilkington Active Self Cleaning Glass
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Author: Anatole
