Description:
Reference Number:1527
Background
Self-cleaning glass and tiles coated with a photocatalytic semiconductor film
have been available on the industrial and commercial markets for some time now.
However, marketing the technology has been hampered by an inherent
impracticality in the quality assurance process. Photocatalytic coatings are
colourless and demonstrating their presence and/or effectiveness can be
difficult. The stearic acid test has been the primary method of measuring
photocatalytic presence and activity but this is a complex, time-consuming
technique that requires expensive analytical equipment and a trained technician.
In addition it cannot be performed on products in situ. Novel technology has
been developed by the University of Strathclyde that overcomes such difficulties
and may help contribute to an increase in the already considerable demand for
such self-cleaning products.
Technology
The technology uses a simple and reliable indicator ink which, upon
activation with UV light irradiation, changes colour to indicate the presence
and extent of activity of the photocatalytic semiconductor. This allows quality
assurance to take place in situ and helps guide fitters in identifying which
surface of the glass or tile is coated with the self-cleaning film, eliminating
error and thus reducing costs. The ink can also be used to assess performance
activity measurement of the coating i.e. its effectiveness.
Key Benefits
- Indicator works faster than the stearic acid test
- Can be used by the layman, eliminating the need for costly personnel or
equipment
- Can be used in situ
- Applied using a simple ink pad and stamp
- Ink can be mass manufactured cheaply
Markets and Applications
The technology has primary application in the detection and activity
measurement of semiconductor photocatalysis in film coated self-cleaning glass
and tiles. However, the invention also has broader application for measuring any
photocatalytic process, for example within water, air and surface cleansing
activities.
Licensing and Development
This technology is protected by a patent application filed by the University
of Strathclyde as WO2004 / 080595. Contact is welcomed from organisations
interested in developing, licensing or exploiting this technology.
For further information, please contact Research & Knowledge Exchange
Services
e: rkes@strath.ac.uk t: 0141 548 3707 f: 0141 552
4409