Study and Recommendations on the Use of Sealants with Easy-to-Clean and Self-Cleaning Glasses

Jean-Paul Hautekeer, François De Buyl, Laurence Gallez

The recent introduction of easy-toclean and self-cleaning glasses in the Construction Industry has created a tremendous expectation within the general public toward the myth of intelligent self-cleaning buildings.

While there is little doubt today with regard to the good performance of these glass products by themselves, some questions remain on how well they will perform in their final environment due to possible infl uence of surrounding products and chemicals used during the construction but also the occupation of the building.

This paper is specifically reviewing the problems linked to wet applied sealing products. Indeed, the new need for self-cleaning glasses has not removed the requirement for water tight, leakfree and durable construction systems. The use of new superhydrophilic and photoactive glass surfaces that characterized self-cleaning technology has raised questions related to the durability of sealing material especially those that are UV sensitive. On the other hand, hydrophobic contamination by volatile by-products, and/or plasticiser migration has also created performance issues on self-cleaning glasses.

This paper is reporting up-todate information related to those key questions with the objective of helping Industry in the selection of the best sealing technology, the required installation and process precautions and considerations to achieve durable and sustainable glazing systems using Easy-to-clean and Self-cleaning glasses.

Full-Text Article [58 KB]

The Authors

	Mr. Jean-Paul Hautekeer European Construction Industry Director Dow Corning The author works for Dow Corning, the leading producer of silicone, as Major Market Manager for Commercial Glazing in Europe. Mr. Hautekeer holds a bachelor degree in Chemistry from the University of ... Read more
	Mr. Jean-Paul Hautekeer Marketing Manager, Europe Dow Corning Commercial Glazing Jean-Paul Hautekeer is the Global Market Manager for Windows and Insulating Glass for Dow Corning, the leading producer of silicone. Hautekeers responsibilities as Market Manager as well as his pre... Read more