A team at Zhejiang University has created a thin, transparent glass with the ability to remove up to 98% of adhering dust in a matter of seconds, without the need for water, chemicals or excessive energy. This development plans to reduce maintenance costs on solar panels, skyscrapers, windshields and other critical surfaces exposed to dusty conditions.
How self-cleaning glass works
The glass integrates a series of almost imperceptible electrodes that, when activated with electric fields alternating electric fields fields, they cause the detachment of organic and inorganic particles adhered to the surface. The observed phenomenon drives the particles laterally and in many cases causes them to jump completely off the glass. This principle is based on the motion induced by electric charges under alternating field conditions.
Many current cleaning methods fail in dry climates or require constant maintenance. This new system, on the other hand, has the ability to operate without water or abrasion, showing efficiency even in adverse conditions such as sandstorms. It also has the ability to stay clean, and this is due to what the researchers call the “particle shielding effect“: an action that deflects charged particles from the air, reducing the accumulation of new dust by almost 90%.
The glass has a thickness of only 0.62 mm, which uses common materials and its manufacture involves techniques compatible with current industrial processes. The electrodes are etched onto the surface of the glass and then coated with a protective film. This makes it possible to consider large-scale implementation without substantially modifying existing production lines.
Through its transparency and low visible light loss, glass is ideal for systems where clarity and energy efficiency are priorities. This includes high-rise windows, greenhouse roofs, solar panels and automotive glazing. By preventing dust accumulation and reducing the need for manual or automated cleaning, it represents a sustainable and practical solution for a variety of industries.
The results of this research have been published in Advanced Sciencean international high-impact scientific journal. The publication highlights the potential of this technology to improve the way surfaces exposed to the environment are designed and maintained.
Source: Interesting Engineering
Photo: Shutterstock
