On rainy days, have you wondered why you need to strain your eyes just to have a better look at the road ahead, even with the assistance of wipers? Driving in the rain, especially, after dark can be quite a challenge.
Water repellence pattern
Due to its polarity nature, water has high cohesion and adhesion properties. On a clean and smooth surface, the water spreads to form a thin film. This happens when the adhesive forces are stronger than the cohesive forces. Hence, when it rains, it is common to see water droplets spreading over glass surfaces.
On the other hand, when a droplet of water lands on a lotus leaf, it beads up and rolls off the leaf surface without leaving a trace of water behind. Along the way, it washes away any dirt.
This self-cleaning property fascinated scientists for a long time until recently, when scientists realised that this peculiar behaviour is due to the nanostructures present on the surface of the lotus leaf. They termed this high water repellence phenomenon as super-hydrophobicity.
Technical applications
Some nanotechnologists have developed treatments, coatings, paints, roof tiles, fabrics and other surfaces that can stay dry and clean themselves in the same way as the lotus leaf.
Nanotechnologists have developed coatings that can stay dry and clean themselves. E.g. NV RainGuard This can usually be achieved using special fluorochemical or silicone treatments on structured surfaces or with compositions containing micro-scale matter. Super-hydrophobic coatings comprising Teflon microparticles have been used on medical diagnostic slides for over 30 years.
It is possible to achieve such effects by using combinations of polyethylene glycol with glucose and sucrose, or any insoluble matter in conjunction with a hydrophobic substance.
One example of a product with super-hydrophobic self-cleaning properties is the NV RainGuard.
NV RainGuard
NV RainGuard is a product specialty of Nick & Vin Autoshine, a local firm specialising in super-hydrophobic nanotechnology.
The product combines nanotechnology and chemical treatment to produce super-hydrophobic coating solution for water repellent application. A cost effective spray solution designed for glass, metal and ceramic surfaces, NV RainGuard's coating is translucent and has a large contact angle for easy rolling of water droplets. It has been tested for outdoor durability and is able to withstand tough weather conditions.
Some nanotechnologists have developed treatments, coatings, paints, roof tiles, fabrics and other surfaces that can stay dry and clean themselves in the same way as the lotus leaf.
It is possible to achieve such effects by using combinations of polyethylene glycol with glucose and sucrose, or any insoluble matter in conjunction with a hydrophobic substance.
One example of a product with super-hydrophobic self-cleaning properties is the NV RainGuard.
NV RainGuard
NV RainGuard is a product specialty of Nick & Vin Autoshine, a local firm specialising in super-hydrophobic nanotechnology.
The product combines nanotechnology and chemical treatment to produce super-hydrophobic coating solution for water repellent application. A cost effective spray solution designed for glass, metal and ceramic surfaces, NV RainGuard's coating is translucent and has a large contact angle for easy rolling of water droplets. It has been tested for outdoor durability and is able to withstand tough weather conditions.
Advantages of NV RainGuard
With the ultra-smooth surface NV RainGuard creates, water that comes into contact with the glass forms into beads more quickly, instantly sliding off the glass surface. This ensures maximum clarity for the glass surface, even in extreme weather conditions.
A breakthrough innovation that will not peel or compromise the glass' original optical properties, NV RainGuard is an indispensable and long-lasting enhancement for any glass surface - from windows to windshields, outdoor glass display panels to glass canopies.
When applied to car windscreens, NV RainGuard not only improves visibility, but it also prevents wiper marks on windscreen surfaces as well as assists in reducing glare from other vehicles' headlights at night. Most importantly, the safety of driving during heavy downpours is increased.
The NV RainGuard can last permanently on all window surfaces except on the front windscreen, which may deteriorate depending on wiper usage.
Installation prices for the NV RainGuard on vehicles start from $140 for a medium-sized car and the whole installation process only requires 2 hours. If there is a request to remove water spots from the windows, additional charges will apply.
Why choose Nick & Vin Autoshine?
Leveraging on the advances of nanotechnology, Nick & Vin Autoshine offer breakthrough products that combine unprecedented protective coating technologies with environmentally friendly features.
The highest possible standards in technology, quality, reliability and effectiveness exist in every one of the products Nick & Vin Autoshine offer. Pricing is also kept transparent and uncomplicated, to make working with them a smooth and hassle-free experience. As timing is critical in today's fast-paced business environment, Nick & Vin Autoshine strive to provide only the fastest response and turnarounds all the time.
Nick & Vin Autoshine strongly believe in delivering quality car care and therefore only renowned and proven products are used to achieve long lasting effects for your prized possession. They also cater a wide range of quality automotive services. The team of professional staff at Nick & Vin Autoshine is qualified, both technically and theoretically. They are 100% dedicated to share their knowledge and expertise with customers.
More notably, Nick & Vin Autoshine has been the preferred groomers for the Formula One Singapore Course Vehicle since 2009. They have been featured on The Straits Times, Shin Min Daily and Capital 95.8FM.
Nick & Vin Autoshine is located at 1 Pasir Ris Close Downtown East S(519599) For more information, please visit here. Alternatively, you find out more about them on their Facebook page.
Nick & Vin Autoshine strongly believe in delivering quality car care and therefore only renowned and proven products are used to achieve long lasting effects for your prized possession. They also cater a wide range of quality automotive services. The team of professional staff at Nick & Vin Autoshine is qualified, both technically and theoretically. They are 100% dedicated to share their knowledge and expertise with customers.
More notably, Nick & Vin Autoshine has been the preferred groomers for the Formula One Singapore Course Vehicle since 2009. They have been featured on The Straits Times, Shin Min Daily and Capital 95.8FM.
Nick & Vin Autoshine is located at 1 Pasir Ris Close Downtown East S(519599) For more information, please visit here. Alternatively, you find out more about them on their Facebook page.
