In recent years, technology has advanced so far that we now have self-cleaning devices. Self-cleaning litter boxes and self-cleaning ovens may be familiar to you. However, have you heard of self-cleaning paints?
Let us tell you more about it if this is your first time hearing it!
Self-Cleaning Paint Explained: What is It?
What is self-cleaning paint, exactly? Scientists from the Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology - part of the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research -- invented the technology underlying self-cleaning paint. Among its ingredients is titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
"When the coating of paint is exposed to the sun, or any other ultraviolet light source, any organic substances on the surface decompose with the oxidative properties contained in the paint's coating," according to LoveToKnow.
Self-cleaning paint not only repels water but also repels oil, HowStuffWorks reported. Self-cleaning paint is precious for individuals who wish to keep their maintenance routine as low as possible since it suits hard-to-reach and hard-to-clean regions.
How Does It Work?
SAS Europe said self-cleaning paints create a microscopically textured surface with a contact angle of 140 degrees. It results in an ultra-hydrophobic surface that causes water to bead up into pearls of water that run across the facade's surface.
The water beads collect the dirt and other particles that fall to the ground as they flow over the surface. As a result, dirt and other particles are removed from the surface, effectively cleaning it.
Nissan has even illustrated how self-cleaning paint works on automobiles. The Japanese firm shared the feature on YouTube.
RIP, car washes. @Nissan invents a self-cleaning paint. http://t.co/bNVIL3jsrH #marketing pic.twitter.com/d6C4F3ns49
— 广州外围上门 (@rizzotweets) April 29, 2014
ALSO READ: How Does Intumescent Paint Work & Why Is It Important?
Other Paint Innovations
Self-cleaning paint isn't the only paint-related invention and technology that has been developed in recent years.
According to The Family Handyman, if there is such a thing as self-cleaning paint, there is also a sort of paint containing air purifying technology. One-coat paints and paint that dries faster than usual have also been produced.
You've probably heard of the terms "smart home," "smart appliances," "smart lights," and other similar words. Given this, you might not be shocked to learn that smart paint now exists.
"Researchers have recently developed a paint that can turn any wall into a touchscreen, bringing a whole new meaning to the term 'smart home,'" Techaeris reported.
Looking for more environmentally friendly paint? According to Techaeris, solar paint is also available these days and "contains tiny light-sensitive particles that absorb sunlight to convert it into energy."
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