Anti-reflective glass has been widely used in many fields because of its superior optical properties and the function of reducing the reflected light on the surface. Such as monitors, camera lenses, building Windows, etc. In the manufacturing process of anti-reflective glass, the first thing is to clean the glass surface. This step is the basis for the next step, to ensure that the coating of the anti-reflective glass can be fully attached to the glass. For anti-reflective glass manufacturers, the first step in glass cleaning is important. It can not only directly affect the effect of the subsequent coating process, but also have an important impact on the final quality and service life of the product.
Steps for cleaning glass surfaces
Anti-reflective glass surface cleaning is not as simple as it sounds on the surface. This is a delicate and gradual process. The following steps are usually included:
Preliminary cleaning
The initial cleaning is to remove the visible large particles of contaminants and oil on the glass surface. This is usually done using a special glass cleaner or solvent. The specific steps are as follows:
Use compressed air to remove surface particles: First, use compressed air to blow dust and loose particles away from the surface of the glass. This can avoid scratching the glass surface in the subsequent wiping process.
Apply the cleaner: When applying the special glass cleaner, use a lint-free cloth or other cleaning tools. Fleece-free is to minimize the production of impurities. Common cleaning agents include ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone and other organic solvents. They are effective at dissolving fats and organic pollutants.
Mechanical wiping: Finally, we need to gently wipe the glass surface with a dust-free cloth. Ensure that the cleaning agent can fully contact and dissolve all oil and contaminants.
Ultrasonic cleaning
In order to further remove the small particles and difficult to remove pollutants on the surface of the anti-reflective glass, the manufacture of anti-reflective glass is often cleaned using ultrasonic waves. Ultrasonic cleaning tiny bubbles generated by ultrasonic vibration can carry out microscopic impact on the glass surface. The application of ultrasonic waves can remove small stains on the surface of the glass.
Cleaning liquid: Deionized water, ethanol or other professional solvents are commonly used as cleaning liquid. Deionized water can effectively remove ion contamination, while organic solvents can remove grease.
Ultrasonic frequency: Anti-reflective glass factories usually set the frequency of ultrasonic waves in the range of 20-40kHz. The higher the frequency, the better the cleaning effect. The process is carried out in a closed container. We need to isolate all interfering substances outside the container to provide a stable environment.
Soaking and cleaning time: In order to make the ultrasonic cleaning more fully, the glass substrate needs to be soaked in the ultrasonic cleaning solution for a few minutes in advance.
Rinse with deionized water
After ultrasonic cleaning, there may be residues of solvents such as cleaning agents on the surface of the glass. In order to avoid chemical residues affecting the anti-reflective glass coating, further rinsing with ionized water is required. Deionized water can effectively remove any charged contaminants, and will not leave stains such as water stains.
Drying process
As mentioned earlier, if it is not dried after cleaning, the previous steps will be wasted. Only after the anti-reflective glass surface is dried can water stains be avoided. The drying process must be carried out in a dust-free environment to prevent new contaminants from adhering to the glass surface.
