How does self-cleaning glass works?

In construction, dirt-repellent and self-cleaning glass are more and more popular. Because it is complex and expensive to clean the cutain wall of high buildings. Water-repellent coatings were first introduced onto the market by some manufacturers. These coatings were mainly used in indoor applications because they are not permanently weather-resistant. 

The newer coating systems have a hydrophilic (water-astringent) and photocatalytic (chemically active under the effect of UV light) and are more durable than the hydrophobic systems. During the hydrophilization, the surface tension of the water is reduced to such an extent that even the smallest droplets relax to form a water film and flow out in a planar manner. In doing so, the dirt on the now larger wetted surface is better washed off and also no spots from the drop formation more emerge. 

Photocatalysis requires UV irradiation for activation. The coating reacts with organic dirt particles on the surface and decomposes them. Thereafter, the dirt is washed off by the hydrophilic property of the surface. However, a cleaning of the glass surfaces still has to be carried out regularly, only a few times. Caution is advised when using silicones in combination with self-cleaning coating systems. Dry glazing should therefore be used. 

Glazings with self-cleaning coatings can also be further processed into tempered glass (ESG) and heat strengthed glass (TVG) and laminated safety glass (VSG). When transporting and installing, it must be ensured that the glass side with the coating must be clean and dry when the vacuum cleaner is used. 

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