Self-cleaning materials primarily operate on two mechanisms: hydrophobicity and photocatalysis.
1. Hydrophobicity: These materials repel water and other liquids, causing them to bead up and roll off the surface, taking dirt and debris with them. This effect is often referred to as the Lotus Effect, named after the lotus leaf's natural self-cleaning properties.
2. Photocatalysis: Materials such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) can absorb ultraviolet light and generate reactive oxygen species. These reactive species can break down organic compounds on the material’s surface, effectively cleaning it.
