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• Introduction

Pilkington Activ™ - Introduction for Architects

This area of the web site is designed to provide an introduction to the Pilkington Activ™ product range, and an overview of the product features and benefits relevant to architects and specifiers.

For more detailed product information or advice, go to the Product Directory or contact our Technical Advisory Helpline on 01744 692000.

How Does It Work?

Pilkington Activ™ is effectively the same as conventional glass but with a specially developed coating on the outside that has a unique dual action. Once exposed to daylight, the coating chemically reacts in two ways.

Breaking down organic dirt
Using a "photocatalytic" process, the coating reacts with ultra-violet rays present in natural daylight to break down and disintegrate organic dirt.

Washing dirt away
The second part of the process happens when rainwater hits the glass. Pilkington Activ™ is "hydrophilic" which means that 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 without leaving unsightly "drying spots".