Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to create surface textures on glass which can be used to make reflection free glass. The glass is not only glare-free, but also anti-fogging and can clean itself. This technology can be used in solar panels to increase efficiency, as well as in buildings or in electronic devices.

This is a ‘multifunctional’ glass. It is based on surface nanotextures. The glass is created by depositing thin layers of material on the surface of the glass and then selectively etching that material away. Therefore, tiny cones on the glass are created which are taller than their width. This allows the glass to prevent reflections and repel water. The technology is described in the journal ACS Nano.

MIT researchers hope that the technology can be used in smartphone, televisions, solar panels and in many more sections. As the glare free glass is self-cleaning, it wouldn’t store dust and dirt. Having the anti-glare glass properties, it can transfer more light through its surface rather than reflecting. It can also prevent mobile screens get wet from sweat. To know more details, click here.

The research was funded by the Army Research Office through MIT’s Institute for Soldier Nanotechnology; the Air Force Office of Scientific Research; Singapore’s National Research Foundation through the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) Centre, and the Xerox Foundation.

Do you have any thoughts about how we could benefit from this self-cleaning, anti-glare and anti-fog glass technology? Share your thoughts.

Source : MIT