Safeguarding the appearance and integrity of new glass against the elements, pollution and deliberate or accidental damage is no longer an intractable problem, says Simon Mercer of surface protection specialist Signo Ltd.

Signo Glassguard brings the power of nanotechnology to preserving glass quality. The product develops strong but inert chemical bonds with the underlying glass substrate – effectively becoming an integral part of the surface, says Signo. The smooth, anti-stain, non-discolouring layer formed is crystal clear, UV stable, chemically inert and extremely durable, having both hydrophobic and oleophobic (lacking affinity for oil) capabilities. It will not discolour, peel or flake and is unaffected by extremes of temperatures from –20°C to +350°C, says the company.

Architects are specifying Glassguard treatment at the design stage of a project. Robert Burn (FInstBE,C Eng) architectural engineer is one. He has a wealth of experience in constructing glass structures for notable projects, including the DEFRA research laboratory near York. Experimental greenhouses and a glass office atrium were key features of this scheme from leading architectural practice RMJM.

‘I’ve recently specified Glassguard for a structure where cleaning would certainly be an issue, and saw its performance against a non-coated panel’, says Robert. ‘It works, and what’s more there is no tie-in to specific maintenance products.’

Glassguard application is by surface spraying onto pre-cleaned surfaces of finished units, using either low-cost manual equipment or high-volume automated options. No curing time or water wash-off is required, nor is the treated glass left slippery to the touch.

Economic choice

‘The on-site, end-of-process application makes Signo Glassguard an economic choice for us as there is none of the wastage or breakage of pre-treated product during the cutting and assembly of glazing units,’ explains Dave Scholefield of Oakland Glass, a leading independent DGU manufacturer, which makes sealed units for West Yorkshire Windows’ premier range of conservatories. ‘Glassguard is also so chemically inert that it is resistant to the alcohols and acids in the industrial cleaning products that are used on site to remove surplus sealants and other marks from the glass.’

Ethanol-based Signo Glassguard is made up of silicon dioxide molecules whose surface energy is modified by anti-bonding molecules. A full 10-year wear-out warranty applies.

Source

Glass Age