Transmaterial

Activ

Self-cleaning glass has been described as an impossible dream, yet Pilkington now offers a glass called Activ which they claim does just that. Activ's unique dual-action uses the forces of nature to help keep the glass free from organic dirt, providing not only the practical benefit of less cleaning, but also clearer, better-looking windows.

Pilkington Activ is an ordinary glass with a special surface on the outside that exhibits the unique dual-action. Once exposed to daylight, the surface 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.

From certain angles Activ has a slightly greater mirror effect than ordinary glass, with a faint blue tint. Otherwise, the glass is just like any other. The PhotoActiv surface is an integral part of the glass itself, so it can only be affected if the glass itself is damaged; for example, by pointed objects, abrasive cleaners or steel wool. Tests have also shown it will not flake off or discolor, and the surface should last as long as the glass itself.

The surface 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, Activ self-cleaning glass is supposedly kinder to the environment than ordinary glass. [via the Pilkington website; suggested by Margaret Montgomery, Seattle.]

posted by Blaine @ 4:51 PM