new use for titanium in windows
PPG Unveils Sunclean Self-Cleaning Glass
PPG Industries introduced its self-cleaning product, SunClean glass. A durable, transparent coating on SunClean helps break down dirt particles and sheets water so that rain or the light spray of a garden hose can rinse the exterior clean. Additionally, the sheeting action provides minimal spotting for a cleaner appearance, the company reports.
"We think it's the kind of product that will make the contractor very popular with homeowners," said Patrick Kenny, director of marketing for PPG's flat glass products, who introduced SunClean self-cleaning glass.
The self-cleaning properties of SunClean glass are made possible by a durable, transparent coating of titanium dioxide (Ti02) applied during the manufacturing process. The application process, patented by PPG, makes the coating an integral part of the glass, providing homeowners with a durable, long-lasting product.
After a few days of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, the coating becomes energized and provides photocatalytic and hydrophilic properties. The coating and UV light combine to create a photocatalytic action that helps to loosen and dissolve dirt and other organic material. Since UV light is abundant even on cloudy days, this process works non-stop throughout the day, and even remains at work during the night.
The hydrophilic properties of the glass make water droplets spread out, or sheet, across the surface of the glass. When rain or even the light spray of a garden hose hits the window, the dirt and organic materials are easily washed away. The sheeting action helps the window dry without spotting or streaking like conventional glass.
According to Kenny, PPG conducted research of consumers and the building and remodeling trades that indicates self-cleaning glass should be a big hit in the residential construction industry. Surveys of more than 450 builders and remodelers, conducted earlier this year, indicated that professionals in the building and remodeling trades are likely to promote, sell and install self-cleaning windows.
"That makes perfect sense," said Kenny. "Remodelers know that their customers are looking for products customized to their individual needs. With today's busy lifestyles, who wouldn't benefit from a product that lessens the chore of exterior window washing and provides cleaner appearing windows?"
By year-end, the glass will be available to makers of wood, vinyl and aluminum windows serving the new-construction and remodeling markets. This will allow SunClean glass to become available to consumers during the spring 2002 construction season.
"Our widespread customer base of window manufacturers will enable SunClean glass to be a viable option for any homeowner, builder or remodeler this coming spring," said Kenny. |
