What is self-cleaning glass?
Self-cleaning Pilkington Activ glass looks like clear float glass, however its outer surface is covered with a special coating whose exposure to UV radiation triggers a two-stage chemical reaction: first it breaks down organic dirt on the glass, then, when rain water hits the glass, the dirt is washed off. Pilkington Activ is hydrophilic, which means that water does not form droplets, but spreads evenly across the entire surface of the glass. This leads to faster drying with fewer ugly streaks.
If the glass becomes very dirty, there is a longer dry spell, or no rainwater falls on the surface of the glass, the dirt can be washed off quickly and easily with water, and, if necessary, a soft cloth and mild detergent.
Where can I use self-cleaning glass?
Pilkington Activ self-cleaning glass can be used in all glazed sections of windows, conservatories, glass façades, and glass roofs. It is particularly effective in hard-to-reach places, such as roof windows and glass roofs.
Technical details
The special surface of self-cleaning glass is only activated by UV radiation or sunlight. While the coating of the glass is hard, it is still vulnerable to sharp objects, steel wool, and abrasive cleaning agents. Pilkington Activ glass is available in thicknesses of 4 mm and 6 mm. The outer surfaces of all Pilkington Activ glass bear a “Pilkington Activ TM” hologram.