The unique dual-action of the Pilkington Activ™ coating 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.
Benefits
* Saves you time and money and is safer than cleaning your own windows.
* Can be used in almost any external domestic application.
* Unique coating is not worn away or rubbed off - lasts the lifetime of the glazing itself.
* Easily cleaned during dry spells by hosing down or wiping with a soft cloth and warm soapy water.
* Can be used in conjunction with other Pilkington glass products to provide increased energy efficiency and save on heating bills.
How it works
What do you mean by 'dual-action'?
The secret of Pilkington Activ™ lies in its special built-in, continuous-cleaning surface, which works in two stages:
Breaking down organic dirt
Using a 'photocatalytic' process, the PhotoActiv™ surface 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 PhotoActiv™ surface works continuously, with dirt being washed away whenever it rains.
Does Pilkington Activ™ work right away?
After the window has been installed, the surface of 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?
Pilkington Activ™ glass 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?
Activ Glass 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.
For more information visit:
http://www.pilkington.com/applications/products2006/englishusa/bybenefit/selfcleaning/activ/default.htm
Last Updated over 8 years
