Nanotechnology Now - Press Release: "Any windows can be self-cleaning"

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Abstract:
Any windows can be self-cleaning, according to SCF Technologies. It has become the first company to develop an aftermarket window coating that uses the sun´s energy to break down dust and grime, saving time and helping protect the environment

Any windows can be self-cleaning

Copenhagen, Denmark | Posted on March 12th, 2008

Shine On is a new cleaning product for windows that keeps them free from dirt and grime for up to two years, without the need for additional cleaning.

ShineOn is a thin coating developed by SCF Technologies using nanotechnology. It is applied to existing windows with a cloth, giving them the self-cleaning properties that previously could only be applied during the glass manufacturing process.

ShineOn chemically bonds with the glass to create a hard-wearing coating that uses the suns energy to ´burn´ dirt loose. When it rains, the dirt is simply washed away.

"Facility managers use a significant proportion of their maintenance budget on window cleaners, so the advantages for them are clear," says Karsten Felsvang, managing director of SCF Technologies.

"A modern building with a large area of glass has its windows cleaned up to 100 times over two years. Compare that with just one application of ShineOn. Added to that are the advantages to the environment from fewer transport costs and the complete lack of detergents needed."

Expansion
Initial application of Shine On costs more per square metre than traditional detergents, but Karsten Felsvang believes that the long-term benefits of cleaner windows, lower cleaning costs and less use of detergents will easily compensate for this.

"Quality and the environment are two issues that are important for facility managers and ShineOn addresses both those concerns," Karsten Felsvang added.

ShineOn has been launched in Germany by Innovate and will begin expansion to the rest of Europe during 2008. It is also looking for distributors in the United Kingdom.

How to apply ShineOn
ShineOn is applied in two stages. First the windows are prepared with a special fluid to ensure all traces of possible contaminants are removed and the surface activated. The ShineOn is polished on with a cloth. The coating bonds to the glass to give up to two years of self-cleaning.

How it works
ShineOn´s coating works in two ways. The coating contains titanium dioxide, which reacts with sunlight to burn the dirt loose. When rain falls on the coated glass, instead of forming the characteristic round droplet, it flattens out and runs down the window pane, lifting off the loosened dirt and carrying it away. If the climate is dry, the windows can be washed down with plain water.

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About SCF Technologies
SCF Technologies A/S develops and commercializes supercritical technology that is used to refine products, enhance processes and make intelligent materials. Shares in SCF Technologies (SCFT) are listed and traded on the OMX Nordic Exchange Copenhagen. SCF Technologies´ basic technology makes it possible to use such natural substances as water and carbon dioxide under high pressure to create sustainable answers to such problems for the global community as waste disposal and lack of oil.

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Contacts:
Karsten Felsvang
Managing Director
SCF Technologies A/S
Email:
Tel: +45 88 30 32 00

Michael Humle
Vice-President, Sales and Marketing
SCF Technologies A/S
Email:
Tel: +45 88 30 32 00

Alexander Van Haren
Innovate GmbH
Email:
Tel: +49 (0) 3445 23310