PHOTOTITAN: THE FUTURE OF PHOTOVOLTAIC CLEANING
PhotoTitan is the result of research in biogenic materials and biomaterials, completely bio and eco-compatible, following principles of Green Chemistry.
The study of new “intelligent” materials follows synthesis processes that mimic natural biological biomimetic processes.
This new technology performs a strongly photocatalytic activity on the surface of the panels, removing dirt and maintaining their efficiency.
SELF-CLEANS PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS
INCREASES ENERGY EFFICIENCY
LIMITS SURFACE HEATING
HOW IT WORKS
PhotoTitan is based on unconventional titanium dioxide, created through a specific synthesis to increase the photocatalytic capacity of the panels.
Light – When illuminated, titanium dioxide becomes superhydrophilic, meaning it hydrates with extreme ease, maximizing water dispersion on its surface.
Darkness – Conversely, in dark conditions, titanium dioxide increases its hydrophobicity: round droplets of water form on the surface and roll down due to the “lotus effect,” carrying away dirt particles.
Light – darkness – light – darkness… this alternation of conditions, along with atmospheric variability, continuously cleans the surface of photovoltaic panels, activated solely by natural agents.
ADVANTAGES OF PHOTO TITAN
– Self-Cleaning: The product makes the surface of the panels hydrophobic, so water droplets slide off, taking dirt with them and keeping the panel clean and efficient for longer.
– Anti-Pollution: Thanks to its property of developing radical species, the photocatalytic inorganic particles can reduce atmospheric particulate matter, thus all organic pollutants.
– Anti-Dirt: The active ingredient in the product can keep treated surfaces clean by destroying present dirt particles.
– Optimization of Energy Conversion: A photovoltaic panel treated with PhotoTitan and exposed to sunlight heats less than an untreated one under the same conditions. Even a modest reduction in surface temperature helps optimize energy conversion.
– Antibacterial: A surface treated with PhotoTitan becomes strongly antibacterial when exposed to the sun. The formed radicals break cell membranes, preventing the proliferation of bacteria, algae, or mold.
Self-Cleaning Mechanism
With sunlight, the product activates through a photocatalytic mechanism; the surface modifies its wettability characteristics: water deposited on the treated surface tends to form a thin film instead of a droplet. This creates a self-cleaning effect because dirt adheres less to the surface and is more easily washed away. During the day, the surface is completely wet and “washes,” while at night, with darkness, droplets form that slide off. The working principle is linked to the repulsive interaction between water and the surface: droplets tend to roll over the surface rather than slide. While rolling, water collects dirt particles, allowing for self-cleaning. Additionally, as water droplets spread easily, the surface dries quickly and never fogs up.
APPLICATION
PhotoTitan is ready to use, stable, and active in suspension. It should be simply sprayed onto previously cleaned panels with water.
Once applied, it creates an imperceptible surface layer, ensuring optimal cleaning and operating temperature conditions compared to untreated panels.
