Method of manufacturing a shower cubicle

Abstract

A method for producing a shower cubicle (1) having enhanced ease of cleaning of the major surface (20) of the shower cubicle panel (3, 9), the method comprising: applying a fluorine compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to the major surface (20) of the panel (3, 9); and subjecting the panel (3, 9) to a mild detergent water wash prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the major surface (20) of the panel (3, 9), and then subjecting the panel (3, 9) to a degreasing treatment. After the degreasing step, the major surface (20) of the panel (3, 9) is subjected to a plasma treatment with ionized filtered air at room temperature after the panel (3, 9) is thoroughly dried to produce a reactive surface having hydroxyl groups thereon. The hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the major surface (20) of the panel (3, 9) substantially immediately after the major surface (20) of the panel (3, 9) is subjected to the plasma treatment at a flow rate to achieve a coverage of 30 to 60 grams per square meter of the major surface (20). The water contact angle of the major surface (20) coated with the hydrophobic surface coating is significantly increased, as is the longevity of the hydrophobic surface coating on the major surface (20), thereby enhancing the ease of cleaning of the panel.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing a shower enclosure or shower screen, and more particularly, to a method for treating elements of a shower screen or shower enclosure to enhance the ease of cleaning of the element's surface. The invention also relates to elements of a shower screen or shower enclosure with enhanced surface ease of cleaning, and further relates to shower screens or shower enclosures.

[0002] Typically, shower screens and shower enclosures consist of a frame with elongated frame members and one or more panels, usually made of glass or plastic. These panels can be fixed, sliding, folding, or hinged, and can be hinged to the frame, another panel, or a wall forming part of the shower enclosure, or a wall to which the shower screen is fixed. Panels are usually made of clear, transparent glass or plastic. Due to the harsh environment the panels are subjected to during individual showering, glass panels tend to become stained, and in many cases, mold can grow on them. Stains on the panels can originate from limescale, cleaning solutions and compositions, and the accumulation of bodily fluids such as grease, which can deposit on the panels and other parts of the shower enclosure or shower screen during showering. Such stains and mold growth are difficult to remove.

[0003] Such shower screens or shower enclosures typically consist of elongated frame members, which may be made of metal or metal alloys (such as aluminum or aluminum alloys) and may be extruded to form relatively complex cross-sections for engagement with the shower screen or shower enclosure panel and seals. Alternatively, the shower screen or shower enclosure frame may consist of elongated frame members of plastic material, which are often metal-coated and typically extruded to form relatively complex cross-sections. The surfaces of such elongated frame members (made of metal or plastic materials) that constitute the frame of a shower screen or shower enclosure are subjected to the same harsh conditions during individual showering as the panels of the shower screen or shower enclosure, and therefore suffer from similar problems of staining and mold growth.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a method for treating components (whether panels or frame members) of shower screens or shower enclosures that minimizes stains and mold growth on the surface of such components and also makes the components easy to clean.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a method for treating components of a shower screen or shower enclosure to enhance the ease of cleaning of the component surface. The present invention also aims to provide components of a shower screen or shower enclosure with enhanced ease of cleaning, and further aims to provide a shower screen or shower enclosure comprising components with enhanced ease of cleaning surfaces.

[0006] According to the present invention, a method is provided for treating an element of a shower screen or shower room to enhance the ease of cleaning of the element surface, the method comprising: applying a hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface; and pretreating the element surface prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface to increase the bonding properties of the element surface, thereby bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

[0007] In one embodiment of the invention, the pretreatment of the element surface includes activating the element surface to create a surface suitable for providing cross-linking bonding to bond the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

[0008] In another embodiment of the invention, the pretreatment of the element surface includes activating the element surface with plasma to create a surface suitable for providing cross-linking bonding to bond the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

[0009] Preferably, the pretreatment of the component surface includes subjecting the component surface to plasma treatment.

[0010] In one embodiment of the invention, plasma treatment is adapted to activate the element surface by plasma-induced hydroxylation to generate hydroxyl groups on the element surface, thereby providing molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of hydrophobic surface coatings to the element surface.

[0011] Preferably, plasma treatment of the element surface is carried out by subjecting the element surface to an ionized gas flow. Advantageously, the ionized gas flow is configured to impinge on the element surface.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas used to perform plasma treatment on the surface of the component is provided at room temperature under atmospheric conditions.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, the gas used in the plasma treatment of the component surface comprises one or more of the following gases: air, nitrogen, argon, helium, oxygen, or any blend of two or more of these gases.

[0014] Preferably, the plasma gas contains filtered air at room temperature.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, the plasma is generated by any suitable means, and preferably, the plasma is generated by any of the following electrical discharge configurations for generating the ionization of gaseous matter: namely, corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge, slip arc discharge, micro-hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser-induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, and any other suitable electrical discharge configuration for generating the ionization of gaseous matter.

[0016] Advantageously, plasma is applied to the surface via a dielectric barrier discharge array.

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the component within 24 hours after plasma treatment of the component surface.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface within two hours after plasma treatment of the component surface.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface within one hour after plasma treatment. Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface within 30 minutes after plasma treatment. Advantageously, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface no more than 5 minutes after plasma treatment. Ideally, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface substantially immediately after plasma treatment.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention, the component surface is subjected to a degreasing treatment prior to plasma treatment. Preferably, the component surface is degreased by subjecting it to one or more degreasing solvents selected from acetone or isopropanol.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention, the degreasing treatment of the component surface includes a first degreasing treatment, which includes subjecting the component surface to acetone treatment; and a second degreasing treatment, which includes subjecting the component surface to isopropanol treatment after the first degreasing treatment is completed.

[0022] Preferably, the components are thoroughly dried after the degreasing process is completed.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the component surface is washed with water before being degreased.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, the washing is performed using a mixture of water and detergent, and preferably, the washing is performed using a mixture of water and mild detergent.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention, the components are thoroughly dried after washing.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention, the component is thoroughly dried by subjecting it to a first drying process after washing.

[0027] In another embodiment of the invention, during the first drying process, the element is dried in an oven, and preferably, the oven is heated by at least one infrared heater, and the panel is passed through the oven at a speed of 0.5 m / min to 3 m / min, and preferably at a speed of 1 m / min to 2 m / min.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, during the first drying process, the temperature of the infrared heater is between 10°C and 220°C, and the panel is held in the oven for a first drying period of 10 seconds to 10 minutes. Preferably, the temperature of the infrared heater is between 20°C and 200°C, and the panel is held in the oven for a first drying period of 1 minute to 8 minutes. Advantageously, the temperature of the infrared heater is about 120°C, and the panel is held in the oven for a first drying period of about 5 minutes.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention, the element is thoroughly dried by subjecting it to a second drying process after the degreasing process is completed.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention, during the second drying process, the element is dried in an oven, and preferably, the oven is heated by at least one infrared heater, and the panel is passed through the oven at a speed of 0.5 m / min to 3 m / min, and preferably at a speed of 1 m / min to 2 m / min.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, during the second drying process, the temperature of the infrared heater is between 10°C and 220°C, and the panel is in the oven for a second drying period of 10 seconds to 10 minutes. Preferably, the temperature of the infrared heater is between 20°C and 200°C, and the panel is in the oven for a second drying period of 1 minute to 8 minutes. Advantageously, the temperature of the infrared heater is about 120°C, and the panel is in the oven for a second drying period of about 5 minutes.

[0032] In one embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating.

[0033] In another embodiment of the invention, the plasma-activated surface of the element is capable of molecular covalent bonding with a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to ensure molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding between the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating and the element surface.

[0034] Preferably, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is obtained by diluting a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition can be represented by the following general formula:

[0036] RCH2Si(OR 13.

[0037] Preferably, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition may comprise one or more of a variety of modified perfluoropolyether formulations. Advantageously, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group (Si(OR)3), which is formulated to enhance bonding with the component surface.

[0038] In another embodiment of the present invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition can be represented by the following general formula:

[0039]

[0040] In one embodiment of the present invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises one or more of the following active ingredients: ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, fluorinated polymer, and fluorinated compound.

[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 45% to 55% by weight of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises about 50% by weight of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether.

[0042] In another embodiment of the invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 25% to 35% by weight of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises about 30% by weight of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether.

[0043] In another embodiment of the invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 15% to 25% by weight of a fluorinated polymer. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises less than 20% by weight of a fluorinated polymer. In another embodiment of the invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises less than 5% by weight of a fluorinated compound.

[0044] Preferably, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises 0.01% to 1.0% by weight of a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition. Advantageously, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises 0.05% to 0.5% by weight of a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition. Ideally, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises about 0.1% by weight of a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a suitable diluent comprising one or more hydrofluoroalkane and hydrofluoroether.

[0046] In another embodiment of the invention, the hydrofluoroalkane may comprise 2H-perfluoropentane and 3H-perfluoropentane.

[0047] In another embodiment of the invention, the hydrofluoroether may comprise one or more of methoxy-nonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

[0048] In one embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a liquid.

[0049] In another embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface by one of spraying, dipping, flow coating, spin coating, or by a coating device.

[0050] Preferably, the coating device comprises any one of a pad, a brush, or a roller.

[0051] In one embodiment of the invention, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of a component at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of 10 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area to 100 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area.

[0052] Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of 30 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area to 60 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area.

[0053] Advantageously, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of approximately 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area.

[0054] In one embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the component is cured at a temperature not lower than room temperature for a period of approximately twenty-four hours.

[0055] In another embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at an elevated temperature.

[0056] In one embodiment of the invention, the component is placed in a curing oven to allow a hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the component to cure in air.

[0057] In one embodiment of the invention, the temperature in the curing oven is 50°C to 150°C.

[0058] In another embodiment of the invention, the component is placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the component to cure for a period of 30 minutes to 1 hour.

[0059] In one embodiment of the invention, the component is placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the component to cure at a temperature of about 60°C for about 1 hour.

[0060] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the component is placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the component surface to cure at a temperature of about 150°C for about 30 minutes.

[0061] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the component using a physical vapor deposition process.

[0062] Preferably, a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the component surface using a physical vapor deposition process under vacuum or near-vacuum conditions.

[0063] In one embodiment of the invention, when applied to a component surface via a physical vapor deposition process, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a solid or powder form. Preferably, the solid form of the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is provided in granular form.

[0064] In one embodiment of the invention, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid or powder form comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition in an amount greater than 80% by weight.

[0065] Preferably, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid or powder form comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition in an amount greater than 90% by weight.

[0066] In another embodiment of the invention, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element to produce a final thickness of 10 nanometers to 50 micrometers of hydrophobic surface coating.

[0067] In one embodiment of the invention, the element comprises a panel having a pair of opposing main surfaces, and a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to at least one of the main surfaces of the panel. Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to both main surfaces of the panel.

[0068] In another embodiment of the invention, the panel comprises a transparent panel, and preferably a clear transparent panel.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the panel comprises a glass panel.

[0070] Alternatively, the panel may be made of plastic material.

[0071] In another embodiment of the invention, the panel is adapted to form a shower screen or shower enclosure panel.

[0072] In another embodiment of the invention, the element comprises a frame member, and preferably, an elongated frame member having an outer surface, and advantageously, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to its outer surface.

[0073] In another embodiment of the invention, the inner surface of the frame member is also coated with a hydrophobic surface coating.

[0074] Preferably, the frame members comprise metallic materials.

[0075] Advantageously, the frame components contain metal alloy materials.

[0076] Preferably, the frame members comprise aluminum.

[0077] Advantageously, the frame components are made of aluminum alloy.

[0078] In one embodiment of the invention, the frame members are coated with aluminum chromium or have an anodized coating.

[0079] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the frame members comprise a plastic material.

[0080] In one embodiment of the invention, the plastic material of the frame member is coated with a metallic coating that defines the outer surface of the frame member.

[0081] Preferably, the frame components are formed by an extrusion process.

[0082] In one embodiment of the invention, the frame member is adapted to form part of the frame of a shower screen or shower room.

[0083] In another embodiment of the invention, the frame member is adapted to connect a pair of panels of a shower screen or shower room together.

[0084] In another embodiment of the invention, the frame member is adapted to fix the panel of a shower screen or shower room to the wall.

[0085] In another embodiment of the invention, the element includes components of a shower screen or shower enclosure.

[0086] Preferably, the component includes one of the door handles or hinges of a shower screen or shower enclosure.

[0087] The present invention also provides an element for a shower screen or shower room, the element comprising an element surface coated with a hydrophobic surface coating, the hydrophobic surface coating being applied to the element surface by a method according to the present invention.

[0088] In one embodiment of the invention, the element includes a panel.

[0089] In another embodiment of the invention, the panel comprises a glass panel.

[0090] In another embodiment of the invention, the element comprises an elongated frame member.

[0091] In another embodiment of the invention, the element includes a component that serves as either a handle or a hinge.

[0092] Furthermore, the present invention provides a shower screen or shower room that includes at least one element according to the present invention.

[0093] The present invention also provides a shower screen or shower room comprising at least one element having a surface coated with a hydrophobic surface coating, the hydrophobic surface coating being applied to the surface of the element by a method according to the present invention.

[0094] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one element comprises a panel.

[0095] Preferably, the panel comprises a glass panel.

[0096] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one element comprises an elongated frame member.

[0097] In another embodiment of the invention, at least one element comprises a component that is either a handle or a hinge.

[0098] The present invention offers numerous advantages. A particularly important advantage is that the surface of a shower screen or shower enclosure component coated with a hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the invention is relatively easy to clean. This is due to the fact that the water contact angle on the surface of the component coated with the hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the invention is relatively high, ranging from 90° to 120°. This, in turn, minimizes the adhesion between water and the surface coated with the hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the invention, thereby minimizing residual water remaining on the surface, and consequently minimizing material residue in the water or carried by water remaining on the component surface. This further minimizes the risk of such residue-laden water forming on the component surface containing the hydrophobic surface coating applied according to the method of the invention.

[0099] It has been found that plasma treatment of one or more surfaces of one or more elements of a shower screen or shower enclosure, combined with a hydrophobic surface coating, provides a synergistic effect that significantly enhances the adhesion of the hydrophobic surface coating to one or more surfaces of one or more elements. This, in turn, increases the lifetime and effectiveness of the hydrophobic surface coating, making it significantly higher than the lifetime and effectiveness of similar surface coatings applied to the surface of elements that have not been pretreated with plasma treatment.

[0100] It has been found that when hydrophobic surface coatings contain fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coatings, by subjecting the surface to plasma treatment to form hydroxyl groups, which act as reaction sites, they can covalently bond with fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating molecules, thereby ensuring molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to the component surface.

[0101] Plasma-induced formation of surface hydroxyl groups on the component surface promotes the preferential outward molecular orientation and arrangement of fluorinated segments in fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coatings containing nonafluoroisobutyl ether and hydrofluoroether molecules. This is because the less fluorinated, ether-rich segments are able to bind to the surface due to their higher affinity for the activation sites.

[0102] A further advantage of the present invention is that the surface of the component coated with a hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the present invention provides a fingerprint-resistant surface, a stain-resistant surface, and a surface with oleophobic properties.

[0103] A further advantage of the present invention is that the surface of the element coated with a hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the present invention maintains its optical clarity.

[0104] A further advantage of the present invention is that plasma pretreatment of the component surface prevents random absorption of coating chemical modules, which would otherwise result in uneven coating surface coverage, weak adhesion and inconsistent hydrophobic properties.

[0105] A further advantage of the present invention is that the synergistic effect of plasma treatment of the component surface and application of hydrophobic surface coating thereon provides long-term hydrophobicity retention, resistance to environmental degradation and improved adhesion under thermal and mechanical stress.

[0106] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0107] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a shower enclosure according to the invention, which includes elements that have been treated by the method according to the invention to enhance their ease of cleaning;

[0108] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the shower enclosure panel.

[0109] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the frame components of the shower enclosure.

[0110] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a method for enhancing the ease of cleaning of shower enclosure components according to the present invention, and

[0111] Figure 5 This illustrates processing according to the method of the present invention. Figure 1 A diagram comparing the results obtained from the shower enclosure components with those obtained from similar components that were not treated in this way.

[0112] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a shower enclosure according to the invention is shown, generally indicated by reference numeral 1. The shower enclosure 1 comprises multiple elements of a frame 2, within which a pair of spaced-apart panels 3 and a door panel 9 are located and supported. The frame 2 is fixed to and extends outward from a wall 5, which may be a masonry wall or a studded partition wall of the room in which the shower enclosure 1 is located. The panels 3 and the wall 5 define an area 7 for accommodating an individual shower user. The door panel 9 is hinged to the frame 2 by a pair of hinges 10 and is hinged between an open state providing access to and from the area 7 and a closed state of the area 7. A handle 11 on the door panel 9 facilitates its opening and closing.

[0113] Frame 2 includes spaced-apart vertical frame members 14 and 15, and spaced-apart upper and lower frame members 16 and 17 extending between and connecting the vertical frame members 14 and 15. The vertical frame members 14 are configured to secure frame 2 to wall 5, and consequently to panel 3, while one of the vertical frame members 15 is configured to receive hinge 10, and the other is configured to act as a door jamb to engage door panel 9 in the closed state. Upper front frame member 18 of frame 2 connects to the vertical frame members 15. Hinges are secured to door panel 9 by any suitable means, as will be known to those skilled in the art, as is handle 11.

[0114] Each panel 3 and door panel 9 comprises a glass panel made of clear, transparent glass. Each of the upright frame members 14 and 15, together with each of the upper and lower frame members 16 and 17 and the upper front frame member 18, comprises an elongated aluminum member formed by extrusion. The hinges 10 and handles 11 are made of cast aluminum.

[0115] Panel 3, door panel 9, vertical frame members 14 and 15, upper and lower frame members 16 and 17, upper front frame member 18, hinge 10, and handle 11 are subjected to the treatment method according to the invention to enhance the ease of cleaning of their surfaces. First, the method according to the invention for treating panel 3 and door panel 9 to enhance the ease of cleaning of the opposing main surfaces 20 of each of panel 3 and door panel 9 will be described. The method according to the invention for treating the main surfaces 20 of panel 3 and door panel 9 includes applying a hydrophobic surface coating to their opposing main surfaces 20. In this embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating, which will be described in detail below. However, it will be understood that other suitable hydrophobic surface coatings may also be used.

[0116] Now refer to Figure 4 The flowchart, generally indicated by reference numeral 30, illustrates the steps of the method according to the invention for treating the main surfaces 20 of the panel 3 and door panel 9 of the shower enclosure 1. In block 31, panels 3 and 9 are subjected to washing to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9. Washing panels 3 and 9 may include water washing or water / detergent washing. Water / detergent washing includes water and a mild detergent. Washing the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 may be carried out by brushing or by immersing the panels in water or water containing detergent. After washing panels 3 and 9 is completed, panels 3 and 9 are dried in a first drying process, as indicated by block 32. The drying of the panels may be carried out by any suitable drying process until panels 3 and 9 are completely dry. In this embodiment of the invention, the panels are dried in an oven heated by an infrared heater. The heater operates at a temperature of 120°C and passes the panels through the oven at a suitable speed, such that the panels remain in the oven for a first drying period of approximately 5 minutes.

[0117] Once dried, panels 3 and 9 undergo a degreasing process, as indicated by block 33. This degreasing process comprises a two-step process in which panels 3 and 9 undergo two degreasing steps. The first degreasing step is performed by immersing panels 3 and 9 in a first bath containing a degreasing solution containing acetone, and after completing the first degreasing step, panels 3 and 9 are immersed in a second bath containing a degreasing solution containing isopropanol. After completing the two-step degreasing process of block 33, the degreased panels 3 and 9 undergo a second drying process, as indicated by block 34, to ensure that the degreased panels are thoroughly dry. The second drying process is similar to the first drying process and is performed in an oven heated by multiple infrared heaters maintained at a temperature of approximately 120°C. The panels are passed through the oven at a controlled rate, such that the panels remain in the oven for a second drying period of approximately 5 minutes.

[0118] Once drying of panels 3 and 9, as indicated by block 34, is complete, the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 are subjected to plasma activation, as indicated by block 35, to activate the main surfaces and thereby enhance the adhesion of the hydrophobic surface coating to the main surfaces 20 of the panels. Plasma activation is carried out by subjecting the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 to plasma treatment. The plasma can be generated by any of a variety of electrical discharge configurations that cause ionization of gaseous matter. In this embodiment of the invention, plasma is generated by dielectric barrier discharge and directed to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9. The plasma is directed to the main surfaces of the plasma by a dielectric barrier discharge array. In this embodiment of the invention, the gas that generates the plasma comprises filtered air at room temperature and provided under atmospheric conditions.

[0119] Plasma treatment of the main surfaces of panels 3 and 9 activates the main surface 20 through the formation of hydroxyl groups, which are generated on the main surface 20 via plasma-induced hydroxylation. The hydroxyl groups formed on the main surface 20 of panels 3 and 9 act as reaction sites, enabling the molecules of the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to covalently bond with the surface molecules of the main surface 20 of panels 3 and 9, thereby enhancing the molecular anchoring and surface bonding of the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to the main surface 20 of panels 3 and 9.

[0120] After the plasma treatment of the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 is completed, and preferably immediately after the plasma treatment of the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 is completed, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9, as indicated by block 35. If it is impractical to apply the hydrophobic surface coating to the surfaces 20 immediately after the plasma treatment of the main surfaces 20 is completed, the hydrophobic surface coating should be applied within a period of no more than 24 hours after the completion of the plasma treatment, and ideally, within 5 to 15 minutes after the completion of the plasma treatment of the main surfaces 20.

[0121] In this embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition, which is diluted. 1 )3 indicates, and may contain one of a variety of modified perfluoropolyether formulations, or a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group Si(OR)3, which is formulated to enhance bonding with the surface 20 of panels 3 and 9. Concentrated active fluorinated compound-based compositions may also be represented by the following general formula:

[0122]

[0123] The concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition may contain one or more of the following components, but in this embodiment of the invention, it contains each of the following components expressed in percentage proportions based on the weight of the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

[0124]

[0125] However, it will be understood that in some embodiments of the invention, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition may contain 45% to 55% ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, and may contain 25% to 35% ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, and may contain 15% to 25% fluorinated polymer, and less than 5% fluorinated compound.

[0126] The concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition is then diluted with a suitable diluent to form a liquid solution of a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating, such that the hydrophobic surface coating contains about 0.1% by weight of the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition. However, in some embodiments of the invention, it is contemplated that the diluted hydrophobic surface coating may contain 0.01% to 1.0% by weight of the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition, but preferably, it will contain 0.05% to 0.5% by weight of the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition. In this embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating is in liquid form. In this embodiment of the invention, the diluent may contain hydrofluoroalkanes such as 2H-perfluoropentane or 3H-perfluoropentane, or may contain hydrofluoroethers such as methoxy-nonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

[0127] The hydrophobic surface coating in liquid form can be applied to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 by spraying, dipping, flow coating, spin coating, or using an applicator such as a pad, brush, or roller. In this embodiment of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 by spraying, as indicated by block 36. The hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 at a suitable flow rate to obtain a minimum surface coverage of 30 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface. The coating can be reapplied or applied at a higher flow rate to obtain a surface coverage of up to 60 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface. Ideally, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9 at a suitable flow rate to obtain a surface coverage of approximately 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface to achieve suitable performance.

[0128] After the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9, panels 3 and 9 are placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to their main surfaces 20 to cure in air, as indicated by block 37. Panels 3 and 9 are placed in the oven and cured at a temperature of approximately 150°C for a curing period of approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, the hydrophobic surface coating can be cured in the oven at a temperature of approximately 60°C for a curing period of approximately 1 hour. However, it is also contemplated that the hydrophobic surface coating can be cured at room temperature for a curing period of approximately 24 hours. After curing is completed as indicated by block 37, panels 3 and 9 are ready for assembly to form a shower enclosure, as indicated by block 38 of flowchart 30.

[0129] The method for applying a hydrophobic surface coating to the outer surfaces of the frame members 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 of the shower enclosure 1, and to the hinges 10 and handles 11, is substantially similar to the method described with reference to flowchart 30 for applying a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to the main surfaces 20 of panels 3 and 9. Initially, the frame members 14 to 18, as well as the handles 11 and hinges 10, are subjected to water or water / detergent washing, as indicated by block 31 and as already described with reference to panels 3 and 9. Then, the frame members 14 to 18, as well as the hinges 10 and handles 11, are subjected to a first drying treatment, as indicated by block 32 of flowchart 30 and as already described with reference to panels 3 and 9. The washed and dried frame members 14 to 18, as well as the hinges 10 and handles 11, are then subjected to two degreasing treatments, as indicated by block 33 and as already described with reference to panels 3 and 9. The degreased frame members 14 to 18, as well as hinges 10 and handles 11, are then dried, as indicated by block 34 of flowchart 30 and as already described with reference to panels 3 and 9.

[0130] Next, the outer surfaces of frame members 14 to 18, hinge 10, and handle 11 are subjected to plasma treatment, as indicated by block 35 and described with reference to panels 3 and 9. Then, a hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the outer surfaces of frame members 14 to 18, hinge 10, and handle 11, as indicated by block 36 and described with reference to panels 3 and 9. The frame members 14 to 18, hinge 10, and handle 11 are then placed in an oven to cure the hydrophobic surface coating, as indicated by block 37 and described with reference to panels 3 and 9. After the curing of frame members 14 to 18, hinge 10, and handle 11 is complete, frame members 14 to 18 are ready for use.

[0131] Then assemble the shower enclosure, including frame 2 and panels 3 and 9, in a conventional manner.

[0132] Now for reference Figure 5 , Figure 5 The above-described hydrophobic surface coating, applied to one of the panels 3 by the method according to the invention, and the above-described hydrophobic surface coating applied to a panel similar to panel 3 but without subjecting the main surface of that panel to plasma treatment, are described.

[0133] To evaluate the performance of the hydrophobic surface coatings on two panels, the panels were subjected to a scrubbing test once the hydrophobic coatings had cured on both panels. The scrubbing test was conducted using a linear abrasion scrubbing tester and a ScotchBrite pad, according to ISO 11998. Periodically, the scrubbing test was paused to measure the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating of the panels. The water contact angle of water droplets adhering to the panel surface is the recommended method for measuring the ease of cleaning of the panel surface. The higher the water contact angle on the surface, the easier the surface is to clean. Accordingly, in Figure 5 In the diagram, the number of scrubbing cycles in the scrubbing test is plotted on the X-axis, while the water contact angle is plotted on the Y-axis.

[0134] from Figure 5 It can be seen that these panels underwent a scrubbing test of approximately 7,600 scrubbing cycles. The scrubbing test was paused at approximately 750, 1,250, 2,400, 3,600, 4,600, and 5,600 scrubbing cycles, and terminated at 7,600 scrubbing cycles.

[0135] Figure 5 Graph A shows the relationship between the water contact angle of the hydrophobic surface coating applied to panel 3 by the method according to the invention and the number of scrubbing cycles. Figure 5 Graph B shows the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating of a panel that had not undergone plasma treatment before the application of the hydrophobic surface coating. In both cases, the hydrophobic surface coating was applied to the respective panel at a suitable flow rate to obtain a minimum surface coverage of 60 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface.

[0136] As can be seen from graph A, the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating of the panel to which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied according to the method of the invention produces an initial water contact angle of approximately 105°. During 7600 scrubbing cycles of the scrubbing test, the water contact angle in graph A remains above 90° and only decreases to 90° after approximately 4600 scrubbing cycles. However, as can be seen from graph B, for the panel to which the hydrophobic surface coating is not applied using the method of the invention, the initial water contact angle is approximately 75°. In this panel, the water contact angle rapidly decreases to approximately 20° after the first approximately 2400 scrubbing cycles. Thereafter, the water contact angle remains substantially constant at 20° until, and continues until, the 7600-cycle scrubbing test.

[0137] Therefore, it can be seen that subjecting the panel surface to plasma treatment before applying the hydrophobic surface coating significantly improves the durability of the hydrophobic surface coating and the water contact angle.

[0138] Although the method according to the invention has been described for enhancing the ease of cleaning of panels, door panels, frame members and other components of a shower enclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that the method can also be applied to panels, door panels, frame members and other components of a shower screen to similarly enhance their ease of cleaning.

[0139] Although hydrophobic surface coatings have been described as containing four active ingredients, in some embodiments of the invention, the hydrophobic surface coating may contain only three active ingredients, in some embodiments only two active ingredients, and in other embodiments only one active ingredient. Generally, it is envisioned that if the hydrophobic surface coating contains only a single active ingredient, that active ingredient will be ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether. On the other hand, if the hydrophobic surface coating contains only two active ingredients, it is envisioned that these two active ingredients will be ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, and any one of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer, or a fluorinated compound. Furthermore, it is envisioned that in the case where the hydrophobic surface coating contains three active ingredients, the first active ingredient will consist of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, and any two of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer, or a fluorinated compound; however, it is generally envisioned that the hydrophobic surface coating will preferably contain both ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether and ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether. It will also be understood that the hydrophobic surface coating may contain active ingredients in proportions different from those described herein, and it is envisioned that the proportions of active ingredients in the hydrophobic surface coating will be appropriately selected, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating does not contain all four active ingredients.

[0140] While the use of fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coatings is considered preferred, it is envisioned that even when the hydrophobic surface coating is not fluorinated compound-based, significantly enhanced results can be achieved by the method according to the invention.

[0141] While the method according to the invention has been described for a shower enclosure having a glass panel and anodized aluminum handles and hinges, as well as frame members, it is contemplated that a hydrophobic surface coating can be applied by the method according to the invention to panels made of materials other than glass, such as plastic panels for shower enclosures. Furthermore, the hydrophobic surface coating can also be applied by the method according to the invention to elongated frame members, handles, and hinges made of materials other than anodized aluminum, such as frame members, handles, and hinges made of plastic materials, typically metal-coated plastic. In practice, it will also be understood that a hydrophobic surface coating can be applied to frame members, handles, and hinges made of materials other than anodized aluminum, such as frame members, handles, and hinges made of anodized or aluminum-chromium coated aluminum or aluminum alloys, as well as frame members, handles, and hinges made of other metals or metal alloys, aluminum alloys, and other such metals and metal alloys.

[0142] Although the plasma treatment was carried out using filtered air at room temperature, any other suitable gas or combination of gases could be used. It is also envisioned that the plasma gas is derived from air that can be heated above room temperature.

[0143] Although plasma processing has been described by means of plasma generated by an electrical discharge configuration that produces ionization of gaseous matter, including dielectric barrier discharge, it is envisioned that other suitable plasma generation systems may be used. For example, plasma may be generated by any suitable electrical discharge configuration that produces ionization of gaseous matter, such as corona discharge, slip arc discharge, micro-hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser-induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, or any other suitable plasma generation device.

[0144] It is envisioned that in some embodiments of the present invention, the degreasing process in which the elements are degreased can be omitted.

[0145] It will also be understood that although the hydrophobic surface coating has been described as containing a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition at a concentration of about 0.1% by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating through dilution, the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition may be greater than or less than 0.1% by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating.

[0146] It will also be understood that, in addition to those described, other suitable diluents may be used to dilute concentrated active fluorinated compound-based compositions.

Claims

1. A method for treating components of a shower screen or shower enclosure to enhance the ease of cleaning of the component surface, the method comprising: A hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the component; Furthermore, the surface of the component is pretreated before the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the component to increase the bonding properties of the surface of the component, thereby bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the component.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the pretreatment of the element surface comprises activating the element surface to create a surface suitable for providing cross-linking bonding to bond the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pretreatment of the element surface comprises activating the element surface with plasma to create a surface suitable for providing cross-linking bonding to bond the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pretreatment of the component surface includes subjecting the component surface to plasma treatment.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the plasma treatment is adapted to activate the element surface by plasma-induced hydroxylation to generate hydroxyl groups on the element surface, thereby providing molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the hydrophobic surface coating to the element surface.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the plasma treatment of the element surface is performed by subjecting the element surface to an ionized gas flow.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the ionized gas flow is configured to impinge on the surface of the element.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the gas for performing plasma treatment on the surface of the element is provided at room temperature under atmospheric conditions.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the gas used in the plasma treatment of the surface of the element comprises one or more of the following gases: air, nitrogen, argon, helium, oxygen, or any blend of two or more of these gases.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the plasma gas comprises filtered air at room temperature.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the plasma is generated by any of the following electrical discharge configurations for generating ionization of gaseous matter: namely, corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge, slip arc discharge, micro-hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser-induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, and any other suitable electrical discharge configuration for generating ionization of gaseous matter.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the plasma is applied to the surface via a dielectric barrier discharge array.

13. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within twenty-four hours after plasma treatment of the surface of the element.

14. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within two hours after plasma treatment of the element surface.

15. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 14, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within one hour after plasma treatment of the surface of the element.

16. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 15, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within 30 minutes after plasma treatment of the surface of the element.

17. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 16, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within 5 minutes after plasma treatment of the surface of the element.

18. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 17, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element substantially immediately after plasma treatment of the surface of the element.

19. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 18, wherein the surface of the element is subjected to a degreasing treatment prior to plasma treatment of the element surface.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the surface of the element is degreased by subjecting the surface of the element to one or more degreasing solvents selected from acetone or isopropanol.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the degreasing treatment of the component surface comprises a first degreasing treatment, the first degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the component surface to acetone treatment; and a second degreasing treatment, the second degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the component surface to isopropanol treatment after completing the first degreasing treatment.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the surface of the element is subjected to water washing before the surface of the element is subjected to degreasing treatment.

23. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the plasma-activated surface of the element is capable of molecular covalent bonding with the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to ensure molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is obtained by diluting a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition is represented by the following general formula: RCH2Si(OR 1 )3。 27. The method according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises one or more of a variety of modified perfluoropolyether formulations.

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group (Si(OR)3), the compound being formulated to enhance bonding with the surface of the element.

29. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition is represented by the following general formula: 。 30. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises one or more of the following active ingredients: ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, fluoropolymer, and fluorinated compound.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 45% to 55% by weight of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether.

32. The method according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises about 50% by weight of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether.

33. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 25% to 35% by weight of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether.

34. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises about 30% by weight of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether.

35. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises 15% to 25% by weight of a fluorinated polymer.

36. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises a fluorinated polymer in an amount of less than 20% by weight thereof.

37. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein the concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition comprises a fluorinated compound in an amount of less than 5% by weight thereof.

38. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 37, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition in an amount of 0.01% to 1.0% by weight thereof.

39. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 38, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises 0.05% to 0.5% by weight of a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

40. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 39, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises about 0.1% by weight of a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition.

41. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 40, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a suitable diluent comprising one or more hydrofluoroalkanes and hydrofluoroethers.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the hydrofluoroalkane comprises 2H-perfluoropentane and 3H-perfluoropentane.

43. The method according to claim 41 or 42, wherein the hydrofluoroether comprises one or more of methoxy-nonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

44. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a liquid.

45. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by one of spraying, dipping, flow coating, spin coating or by a coating device.

46. ​​The method of claim 45, wherein the coating device comprises any one of a pad, a brush, or a roller.

47. The method of claim 45 or 46, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of 10 g hydrophobic surface coating / m² surface area to 100 g hydrophobic surface coating / m² surface area.

48. The method according to any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of 30 g / m² surface area to 60 g / m² surface area.

49. The method according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a certain rate to provide a surface coverage of about 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square meter of surface area.

50. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at a temperature not lower than room temperature for about twenty-four hours.

51. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 49, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at an elevated temperature.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the element is placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element to cure at a temperature of about 60°C for about 1 hour.

53. The method of claim 51, wherein the element is placed in a curing oven to allow the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element to cure at a temperature of about 150°C for about 30 minutes.

54. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 43, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by a physical vapor deposition process.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by a physical vapor deposition process under vacuum or near-vacuum conditions.

56. The method of claim 54 or 55, wherein when applied to the surface of the element by a physical vapor deposition process, the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid or powder form.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid form is provided in granular form.

58. The method according to claim 56 or 57, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid or powder form comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition in an amount greater than 80% by weight thereof.

59. The method according to any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein the fluorinated compound-based hydrophobic surface coating in solid or powder form comprises a concentrated active fluorinated compound-based composition in an amount greater than 90% by weight thereof.

60. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element to produce a final thickness of the hydrophobic surface coating of 10 nanometers to 50 micrometers.

61. The method according to any preceding claim, wherein the element comprises a panel having a pair of opposing main surfaces, and the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to at least one of the main surfaces of the panel.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to two main surfaces of the panel.

63. The method of claim 61 or 62, wherein the panel comprises a transparent panel, and preferably a clear transparent panel.

64. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein the panel comprises a glass panel.

65. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 64, wherein the panel comprises a plastic material panel.

66. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 65, wherein the panel is adapted to form a panel for a shower screen or shower enclosure.

67. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the element comprises a frame member having an outer surface, and preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to its outer surface, and preferably, the element comprises an elongated frame member.

68. The method of claim 67, wherein the frame member comprises a metallic material.

69. The method according to claim 67 or 68, wherein the frame member comprises a metal alloy material.

70. The method according to any one of claims 67 to 69, wherein the frame member comprises aluminum.

71. The method of claim 70, wherein the frame member comprises an aluminum alloy.

72. The method of claim 67, wherein the frame member comprises a plastic material.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein the plastic material of the frame member is coated with a metallic coating defining the outer surface of the frame member.

74. The method according to any one of claims 67 to 73, wherein the frame member is formed by an extrusion process.

75. The method according to any one of claims 67 to 74, wherein the frame member is adapted to form part of the frame of a shower screen or shower room.

76. The method according to any one of claims 67 to 75, wherein the frame member is adapted to connect a pair of panels of a shower screen or shower enclosure together.

77. The method according to any one of claims 67 to 76, wherein the frame member is adapted to secure the panel of a shower screen or shower enclosure to a wall.

78. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the element comprises a component of a shower screen or shower enclosure.

79. The method of claim 78, wherein the component comprises one of a shower screen or a shower enclosure door handle or hinge.

80. An element of a shower screen or shower enclosure, said element comprising an element surface coated with a hydrophobic surface coating, said hydrophobic surface coating being applied to said element surface by means of the method according to any of the preceding claims.

81. The element of claim 80, wherein the element comprises a panel.

82. The element of claim 81, wherein the panel comprises a glass panel.

83. The element according to any one of claims 80 to 82, wherein the element comprises an elongated frame member.

84. The element according to any one of claims 80 to 83, wherein the element comprises a component as one of a handle or a hinge.

85. A shower screen or shower enclosure comprising at least one element according to any one of claims 80 to 84.

86. A shower screen or shower enclosure comprising at least one element having a surface coated with a hydrophobic surface coating, the hydrophobic surface coating being applied to the surface of the element by any one of claims 1 to 79.

87. The shower screen or shower enclosure of claim 86, wherein the at least one element comprises a panel.

88. The shower screen or shower enclosure according to claim 87, wherein the panel comprises a glass panel.

89. The shower screen or shower enclosure according to any one of claims 86 to 88, wherein the at least one element comprises an elongated frame member.

90. The shower screen or shower enclosure according to any one of claims 86 to 89, wherein the at least one element comprises a component as one of a handle or a hinge.

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