A method for producing a shower enclosure

Abstract

A method for producing a shower enclosure (1) with enhanced cleanability of major surfaces (20) of panels (3, 9) of the shower enclosure comprising applying a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces (20) of the panels (3, 9), and prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces (20) of the panels (3, 9), subjecting the panels (3, 9) to a mild detergent water wash and then to a degreasing treatment. On the panel (3, 9) being thoroughly dried after the degreasing step, the major surfaces (20) of the panel (3, 9) are subjected to a plasma treatment with filtered air at room temperature ionised to produce a reactive surface with hydroxyl groups thereon. Substantially immediately after subjecting the major surfaces (20) of the panels (3, 9) to the plasma treatment, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the major surfaces (20) of the panels (3,9) at a flow rate to achieve a coverage in the range of 30 to 60 grams per square metre of the major surfaces (20). The water contact angle of the major surfaces (20) coated with the hydrophobic surface coating is significantly increased as is the life of the hydrophobic surface coating on the major surfaces (20), thereby enhancing the cleanability of the panels.

Description

[0001] A method for producing a shower enclosure

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for producing a shower enclosure or a shower screen, and in particular, to a method for treating an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure to enhance the cleanability of a surface of the element. The invention also relates to an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure having a surface thereof, the cleanability of which is enhanced, and the invention further relates to a shower screen or a shower enclosure.

[0003] Shower screens and shower enclosures, in general, comprise a framework comprising elongated frame members, and one or more panels, typically, of glass or plastics material which may be fixed panels, slideable panels, foldable panels or hingedly coupled panels, which may be hingedly coupled to the framework, to another panel or to a wall forming a part of a shower enclosure, or a wall to which the shower screen is secured. The panels, typically, are of clear transparent glass or plastics material. Due to the harsh environment to which the panels are subjected during showering by an individual, the glass panels tend to stain, and in many cases, mould may grow on the panels. The staining of the panels may result from a collection of limescale, cleaning fluids and compositions and bodily fluids, such as grease, which may be deposited on the panels and other components of the shower enclosure or shower screen during showering. Such staining and mould growth is difficult to remove.

[0004] The framework of such shower screens or shower enclosures typically comprise elongated frame members which may be of a metal or a metal alloy, for example, aluminium or an aluminium alloy, and may be extruded to form relatively complex cross-sections for engaging seals and the panels of the shower screen dr the shower enclosure. Alternatively, the frameworks of shower screens or shower enclosures may comprise elongated frame members of plastics material, which typically, are metal coated, and in general, are extruded of relatively complex cross-sections. The surfaces of such elongated frame members be they of metal or plastics material, which constitute the framework of shower screens and shower enclosures, are subjected to the same harsh environment as that to which the panels thereof are subjected during showering by an individual, and therefore suffer from similar staining and mould growth problems as the panels of the shower screens and shower enclosures.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a method for treating an element, be it a panel or a frame member of a shower screen or a shower enclosure which minimises staining and mould growth on the surfaces of such elements, and also renders the elements to be easily cleanable. The present invention is directed towards providing a method for treating an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure to enhance the cleanability of a surface of the element. The invention is also directed towards an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure, the surface of which comprises enhanced cleanability, and the invention is also directed towards a shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising an element thereof, the surface of which comprises enhanced cleanability.

[0006] According to the invention there is provided a method for treating an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure to enhance the cleanability of a surface of the element, the method comprising applying a hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element, and prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element pre-treating the surface thereof to increase the bondability properties of the surface of the element for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

[0007] In one embodiment of the invention the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises activating the surface of the element to produce a surface adapted to provide cross-linked bonding for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

[0008] In another embodiment of the invention the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises activating the surface of the element with a plasma to produce the surface adapted to provide cross-linked bonding for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

[0009] Preferably, the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises subjecting the surface thereof to a plasma treatment.

[0010] In one embodiment of the invention the plasma treatment is adapted to activate the surface of the element to produce hydroxyl groups thereon by plasma induced hydroxylation to provide molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

[0011] Preferably, the plasma treatment of the surface of the element is carried out by subjecting the surface thereof to a stream of ionised gas. Advantageously, the stream of ionised gas is configured to impinge upon the surface of the element.

[0012] In one embodiment of the invention the gas for carrying out the plasma treatment of the surface of the element is provided at room temperature under atmospheric conditions.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention 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.

[0014] Preferably, the plasma gas comprises 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 one of the following electrical discharge configurations for producing ionisation of gaseous species, namely, corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge, gliding arc discharge, micro hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, and any other suitable electrical discharge configurations for producing ionisation of gaseous species.

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

[0017] In one embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within twenty-four hours of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

[0018] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within two hours of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within one hour of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof. Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within 30 minutes of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof. Advantageously, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element not more than 5 minutes of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof. Ideally, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element substantially immediately after the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

[0020] In one embodiment of the invention prior to plasma treatment of the surface of the element, the surface thereof is subjected to a degreasing treatment. Preferably, the surface of the element is subjected to the degreasing treatment by subjecting the surface of the element to a degreasing solvent selected from one or more of acetone or isopropyl alcohol.

[0021] In one embodiment of the invention the degreasing treatment of the surface of the element comprises a first degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the surface of the element to an acetone treatment, and a second degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the surface of the element to an isopropyl alcohol treatment subsequent to completion of the first degreasing treatment.

[0022] Preferably, on completion of the degreasing treatment the element is thoroughly dried.'

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention prior to subjecting the surface of the element to the degreasing treatment, the surface of the element is subjected to a water wash.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention the water wash is carried out with a mixture of water and a detergent, and preferably, with a mixture of water and a mild detergent.

[0025] In one embodiment of the invention the element is thoroughly dried on completion of the water wash.

[0026] In one embodiment of the invention the element is thoroughly dried on completion of the water wash by subjecting the element to a first drying process.

[0027] In another embodiment of the invention in 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 in the range of 0.5 metres per minute to 3 metres per minute, and preferably, at a speed in the range of 1 metre per minute to 2 metres per minute.

[0028] In one embodiment of the invention in the first drying process the temperature of the infrared heater lies in the range of 10’C to 220°C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a first drying time period in the range of 10 seconds to 10 minutes, and preferably, the temperature of the infrared heater lies in the range of 20“C to 200“C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a first drying time period in the range of 1 minute to 8 minutes, and advantageously, the temperature of the infrared heater is approximately 120”C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a first drying time period of approximately 5 minutes. In one embodiment of the invention the element is thoroughly dried on completion of the degreasing treatment by subjecting the element to a second drying process.

[0029] In one embodiment of the invention in 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 in the range of 0.5 metres per minute to 3 metres per minute, and preferably, at a speed in the range of 1 metre per minute to 2 metres per minute.

[0030] In one embodiment of the invention in the second drying process the temperature of the infrared heater lies in the range of 10’C to 220“C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a second drying time period in the range of 10 seconds to 10 minutes, and preferably, the temperature of the infrared heater lies in the range of 20°C to 200"C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a second drying time period in the range of 1 minute to 8 minutes, and advantageously, the temperature of the infrared heater is approximately 120’C, and the panel is retained in the oven for a second drying time period of approximately 5 minutes.

[0031] In one embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating.

[0032] In another embodiment of the invention the plasma activated surface of the element enables covalent bonding with molecules of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to ensure molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating with the surface of the element.

[0033] Preferably, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is diluted from a concentrated active fluorocompound based composition.

[0034] In one embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may be represented by the general formula:

[0035] RCH2Si(OR1)3.

[0036] Preferably, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may comprise one or more of a number of modified perfluoropolyether formulations. Advantageously, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group (Si(OR)3) formulated to enhance bonding to the surface of the element.

[0037] In another embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may be represented by the general formula:

[0038] CF3

[0039] In one embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises one or more of the following active constituents: ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer, and a fluorocompound.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether in an amount in the range of 45% to 55% by weight thereof. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether in an amount of approximately 50% by weight thereof.

[0041] In another embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether in an amount in the range of 25% to 35% by weight thereof. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether in an amount of approximately 30% by weight thereof.

[0042] In another embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluoropolymer in an amount in the range of 15% to 25% by weight thereof. Preferably, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluoropolymer in an amount of less than 20% by weight thereof. In another embodiment of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluorocompound in an amount of less than 5% by weight thereof.

[0043] Preferably, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount in the range of 0.01 % to 1.0% by weight thereof. Advantageously, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount in the range of 0.05% to 0.5% by weight thereof. Ideally, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount of approximately 0.1% by weight thereof.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a suitable diluent comprising one or more of hydrofluoroalkanes and hydrofluoroether.

[0045] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrofluoroalkanes may comprise a 2H-perfluoropentane and a 3H-perfluoropentane.

[0046] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrofluoroether may comprise one or more of methoxynonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

[0047] In one embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a liquid.

[0048] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by one of spray coating, dip coating, flow coating, spin coating or by an applicator.

[0049] Preferably, the applicator comprises any one of a pad, a brush or a roller.

[0050] In one embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface in the range of 10 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface to 100 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface.

[0051] Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface in the range of 30 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface to 60 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface.

[0052] Advantageously, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface of approximately 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface. In one embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at a temperature of not less than room temperature for a period of approximately twenty-four hours.

[0053] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at an elevated temperature.

[0054] In one embodiment of the invention the element is placed in a curing oven to cure the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof in air.

[0055] In one embodiment of the invention the temperature in the curing oven lies in the range of 50°C to 150’C.

[0056] In another embodiment of the invention the element is placed in the curing oven for curing the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof for a time period in the range of 30 minutes to 1 hour.

[0057] In one embodiment of the invention the element is placed in the curing oven to cure the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof at a temperature of approximately 60°C for a period of approximately 1 hour.

[0058] In an alternative embodiment of the invention the element is placed in the curing oven to cure the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof at a temperature of approximately 150”C for a period of approximately 30 minutes.

[0059] In an alternative embodiment of the invention the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by a physical vapour deposition process.

[0060] Preferably, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by the physical vapour deposition process in vacuum or near-vacuum conditions.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating when applied to the surface of the element by the physical vapour deposition process comprises the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in a solid or in a powder form. Preferably, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid form is provided in pelletised form.

[0062] In one embodiment of the invention the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid or powdered form comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount over 80% by weight thereof.

[0063] Preferably, the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid or powdered form comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount over 90% by weight thereof.

[0064] In another embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element to produce a finished depth of the hydrophobic surface coating in the range of 10 nanometres to 50 micrometres.

[0065] In one embodiment of the invention the element comprises a panel having a pair of opposite major surfaces, and the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to at least one of the major surfaces of the panel. Preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to both of the major surfaces of the panel.

[0066] In another embodiment of the invention the panel comprises a transparent panel, and preferably, a clear transparent panel.

[0067] In one embodiment of the invention the panel comprises a panel of glass.

[0068] Alternatively, the panel comprises a panel of a plastics material.

[0069] In another embodiment of the invention the panel is adapted to form a panel of a shower screen or a shower enclosure.

[0070] In another embodiment of the invention the element comprises a frame member, and preferably, an elongated frame member having an outer surface, and advantageously, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the external surface thereof. In another embodiment of the invention an internal surface of the frame member is also coated with the hydrophobic surface coating.

[0071] Preferably, the frame member comprises a metal material.

[0072] Advantageously, the frame member comprises a metal alloy material.

[0073] Preferably, the frame member comprises aluminium.

[0074] Advantageously, the frame member comprises an aluminium alloy.

[0075] In one embodiment of the invention the frame member is coated with an aluchrom or is provided with an anodised coating.

[0076] In an alternative embodiment of the invention the frame member comprises a plastics material.

[0077] In one embodiment of the invention the plastics material of the frame member is coated with a metal coating defining the external surface of the frame member.

[0078] Preferably, the frame member is formed by an extrusion process.

[0079] In one embodiment of the invention the frame member is adapted to form a part of a frame of the shower screen or the shower enclosure.

[0080] In another embodiment of the invention the frame member is adapted for joining a pair of panels of the shower screen or the shower enclosure together.

[0081] In a further embodiment of the invention the frame member is adapted for securing a panel of the shower screen or the shower enclosure to a wall.

[0082] In another embodiment of the invention the element comprises a component of the shower screen or the shower enclosure. Preferably, the component comprises one of a door handle or a hinge of the shower screen or the shower enclosure.

[0083] The invention also provides an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising a surface thereof coated with a hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof by the method according to the invention.

[0084] In one embodiment of the invention the element comprises a panel.

[0085] In another embodiment of the invention the panel comprises a panel of glass material.

[0086] In a further embodiment of the invention the element comprises an elongated frame member.

[0087] In another embodiment of the invention the element comprises a component being one of a handle or a hinge.

[0088] Additionally, the invention provides a shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising at least one of the elements according to the invention.

[0089] The invention further provides a shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising at least one element having a surface thereof coated with a hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof by the method according to the invention.

[0090] In one embodiment of the invention the at least one element comprises a panel.

[0091] Preferably, the panel comprises a panel of glass material.

[0092] In one embodiment of the invention the at least one element comprises an elongated frame member.

[0093] In another embodiment of the invention the at least one element comprises a component being one of a handle or a hinge.

[0094] The advantages of the invention are many. A particularly important advantage of the invention is that the surfaces of the elements of the shower screen or the shower enclosures to which the hydrophobic surface coating has been applied in accordance with the method according to the invention are relatively easily cleaned. This is due to the fact that the water contact angle on the surfaces of the elements to which the hydrophobic surface coating has been applied by the method according to the invention is relatively high, and lies in the range of 90° to 120°. This, in turn minimises adhesion of water to the surfaces which have been coated with the hydrophobic surface coating by the method according to the invention which thereby minimises residual water remaining on the surfaces, and in turn, minimises material residues in or carried by the water remaining on the surfaces of the elements. This in turn minimises the risk of such water carried residues forming on the surfaces of the elements thereof comprising the hydrophobic surface coating applied thereto by the method according to the invention.

[0095] It has been found that the combination of the plasma treatment of the surface or surfaces of the element or elements of the shower screen or the shower enclosure in combination with the hydrophobic surface coating provides a synergistic effect which significantly enhances the bonding of the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface or surfaces of the element or elements which in turn increases the life and the effectiveness of the hydrophobic surface coating significantly over the life and effectiveness of a similar surface coating applied to the surface of the element without being pre-treated with a plasma treatment.

[0096] It has been found that when the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating that by subjecting the surface to the plasma treatment to form the hydroxyl groups, the hydroxyl groups act as reactive sites that enable covalent bonding with the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating molecules to ensure molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

[0097] The plasma induced formation of surface hydroxyl groups on the surface of the element promotes preferential outward molecular orientation and alignment of the fluorinated segments of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating of the nonafluoroisobutyl ether and hydrofluoroether molecules by enabling the less fluorinated ether rich sections to bond the surface arising from their higher affinity to the activated sites.

[0098] A further advantage of the invention is that the surface of the element coated with the hydrophobic surface coating by the method according to the invention provides an anti-finger print surface, an anti-smudge surface and a surface with oleophobic properties. A further advantage of the invention is that the surface of the element coated with the hydrophobic surface coating according to the method of the invention retains its optical clarity.

[0099] A further advantage of the invention is that the plasma pre-treatment of the surface of the element prevents random absorption of the coating chemical modules which would otherwise lead to a non- uniform coating surface coverage, weak adhesion and inconsistent hydrophobic properties.

[0100] A further advantage of the invention is that the synergistic effect of the plasma treatment of the surface of the element and the application of the hydrophobic surface coating thereto provides long-term hydrophobic retention resistance to environmental degradation and improved adhesion under thermal and mechanical stress.

[0101] The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of a preferred embodiment thereof which is given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0102] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a shower enclosure according to the invention comprising elements thereof which have been treated by a method according to the invention to enhance the cleanability thereof,

[0103] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a panel of the shower enclosure of Fig. 1 ,

[0104] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a frame member of the shower enclosure of Fig. 1 ,

[0105] Fig. 4 is a flow diagram of the method according to the invention for enhancing the cleanability of the components of the shower enclosure, and

[0106] Fig. 5 is an illustration of graphs showing a comparison of the results achieved by treating an element of the shower enclosure of Fig. 1 with the method according to the invention with those of a similar element not so treated.

[0107] Referring to the drawings there is illustrated a shower enclosure according to the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 1. The shower enclosure 1 comprises a plurality of elements of a framework 2 within which a pair of spaced apart panels 3 of the shower enclosure are located and supported as well as a door panel 9. The framework 2 is secured to and extends outwardly from a wall 5, which may be a masonry wall or a studded partition wall of a room in which the shower enclosure 1 is located. The panels 3 and the wall 5 define an area 7 for accommodating an individual showering therein. The door panel 9 is hingedly coupled to the framework 2 by a pair of hinges 10 and is hingeable between an open state providing access to and from the area 7 and a closed state closing the area 7. A handle 11 on the door panel 9 facilitates opening and closing thereof.

[0108] The framework 2 comprises spaced apart upstanding frame members 14 and 15 and spaced upper and lower frame members 16 and 17 extending between and joining the upstanding frame members 14 and 15. The upstanding frame members 14 are configured to secure the framework 2 and in turn the panels 3 to the wall 5, while one of the upstanding frame members 15 is configured to receive the hinges 10, and the other one of the upstanding frame members 15 is configured to act as a door-jam for engaging the door panel 9 in the closed state. An upper forward frame member 18 of the framework 2 joins the upstanding frame members 15. The hinges are secured to the door panel 9 by any suitable means, which will be well known to those skilled in the art, as is the handle 11.

[0109] Each panel 3 and the door panel 9 comprise glass panels of clear transparent glass. Each of the upstanding frame members 14 and 15 and each of the upper and lower frame members 16 and 17 and the upper forward frame member 18 comprise elongated aluminium members formed by extrusion. The hinges 10 and handle 11 are of cast aluminium.

[0110] The panels 3, the door panel 9, the upstanding frame members 14 and 15, the upper and lower frame members 16 and 17 and the upper forward frame member 18, as well as the hinges 10 and the handle 11 are subjected to a treatment method according to the invention for enhancing the cleanability of surfaces thereof. The method according to the invention will first be described for treating the panels 3 and the door panel 9 for enhancing the cleanability of opposite major surfaces 20 of each of the panels 3 and the door panel 9. The method according to the invention for treating the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and the door panel 9 comprises applying a hydrophobic surface coating to the opposite major surfaces 20 thereof. In this embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating which will be described in detail below. However, it will be appreciated that other suitable hydrophobic surface coatings may be used. Referring now to Fig. 4, a flow chart indicated generally by the reference numeral 30 illustrates the steps of the method according to the invention for treating the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and the door panel 9 of the shower enclosure 1. In block 31, the panels 3 and 9 are subjected to washing for removing dirt, dust and other debris from the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9. The washing of the panels 3 and 9 may comprise a water wash or a water / detergent wash. The water / detergent wash comprises water with a mild detergent. The washing of the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 may be carried out by a brush wash, or by immersing the panels in water or water containing a detergent. On completion of washing of the panels 3 and 9, the panels 3 and 9 are dried as represented by block 32 in a first drying process. Drying of the panels may be carried out by any suitable drying process until the panels 3 and 9 are thoroughly dried. In this embodiment of the invention the panels are dried in an oven heated by infrared heaters. The heaters are operated at a temperature of 120“C, and the panels are passed through the oven at a suitable speed, so that the panels remain in the oven for a first drying time period of approximately 5 minutes.

[0111] Once dried, the panels 3 and 9 are subjected to a degreasing process as represented by block 33. The degreasing process comprises a two-step process in which the panels 3 and 9 are subjected to two degreasing steps. The first degreasing step is carried out by immersing the panels 3 and 9 in a first bath comprising a degreasing solution comprising acetone, and on completion of the first degreasing step, the panels 3 and 9 are immersed in a second bath comprising a degreasing solution comprising isopropyl alcohol. On completion of the two-step degreasing process of block 33, the degreased panels 3 and 9 are subjected to a second drying process as represented 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 carried out in an oven heated by a plurality of infrared heaters maintained at a temperature of approximately 120°C. The panels are passed through the oven at a rate so that the panels remain in the oven for a second drying time period of approximately 5 minutes.

[0112] Once drying of the panels 3 and 9 as represented by block 34 has been completed, the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 are subjected to plasma activation as represented by block 35 in order to activate the major surfaces to enhance bonding of the hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces 20 thereof. The plasma activation is carried out by subjecting the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 to a plasma treatment. The plasma may be generated by any one of a number of electrical discharge configurations that lead to the ionisation of gaseous species. In this embodiment of the invention the plasma is generated and directed at the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 by dielectric barrier discharge. The plasma is directed at the major surfaces of the plasma through a dielectric barrier discharge array. In this embodiment of the invention the gas from which the plasma is derived comprises filtered air at room temperature and is provided under atmospheric conditions.

[0113] The plasma treatment of the major surfaces of the panels 3 and 9 result in the major surfaces 20 being activated by the formation of hydroxyl groups produced on the major surfaces 20 by plasma induced hydroxylation. The hydroxyl groups formed on the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 serve as reactive sites that enable covalent bonding of molecules of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating with surface molecules of the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9, thereby enhancing molecular anchoring and surface bonding of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9.

[0114] On completion of the plasma treatment of the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9, and preferably, immediately upon completion of the plasma treatment of the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 as represented by block 35. If it is not practical to immediately apply the hydrophobic surface coating to the surfaces 20, on completion of the plasma treatment thereof, the hydrophobic surface coating should be applied within a period not greater than 24 hours from completion of the plasma treatment, and ideally, within 5 to 15 minutes of the completion of the plasma treatment of the major surfaces 20.

[0115] In this embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a concentrated active fluorocompound based composition, which is diluted. The concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may be represented by the general formula RCH2Si(OR1)3, and may comprise one of a number of modified perfluoropolyether formulations or a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group Si(OR)3 formulated to enhance bonding to the surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9. The concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may also be represented by the general formula:

[0116] CF3 I

[0117] C3F7 - CF2 - 0 - [ CF2 - CF (CF3) - 0 ] n - CF2 - CH2 - Si (OR) 3

[0118] CF3 The concentrated active fiuorocompound based composition may comprise one or more of the following constituents, but in this embodiment of the invention comprises each of the following constituents in the percentage proportions by weight of the concentrated active fiuorocompound based composition.

[0119] Ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether 50% approximately

[0120] Ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether 30% approximately

[0121] A Fluoropolymer less than 20% but not less than 15%

[0122] A Fluorocompound less than 5%

[0123] However, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments of the invention the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may comprise ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether in the range of 45% to 55%, and may comprise ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether in the range of 25% to 35%, and may comprise the fluoropolymer in the range of 15% to 25%, and the fluorocompound of less than 5%.

[0124] The concentrated active fluorocompound based composition is then diluted by a suitable diluent to form a liquid solution of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating so that the hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount of approximately 0.1% by weight. However, it is envisaged that in some embodiments of the invention the diluted hydrophobic surface coating may comprise the concentrated active fiuorocompound based composition in the amount 0.01 % to 1.0% by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating but preferably, would contain the concentrated active fiuorocompound based composition in an amount in the range of 0.05% to 0.5% by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating. In this embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is in liquid form. In this embodiment of the invention the diluent may comprise either hydrofluoroalkanes such as 2H-perfluoropentane or 3H-perfluoropentane, or may comprise a hydrofluoroether such as methoxy-nonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

[0125] The hydrophobic surface coating in the liquid form may be applied to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 by spraying, dip coating, flow coating, spin coating or by an applicator, for example, a pad, a brush or a roller. In this embodiment of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 by spraying as represented by block 36. The hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 at a suitable flow rate to obtain a minimum surface coverage of 30 grams of the hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of the surface. The coating can be reapplied or applied at a higher flow rate to obtain a surface coverage of up to 60 grams of the hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of the surface. Ideally, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9 at a suitable flow rate to obtain a surface coverage of approximately 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of surface in order to achieve a suitable performance.

[0126] On completion of the application of the hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9, the panels 3 and 9 are placed in a curing oven for oven curing the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the major surface 20 thereof in air as represented by block 37. The panels 3 and 9 are placed in the oven and the curing process is carried out at a temperature of approximately 150°C for a curing time period of approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, the oven curing of the hydrophobic surface coating may be carried out at a temperature of approximately 60°C for a curing time period of approximately 1 hour. However, it is also envisaged that the hydrophobic surface coating may be cured at room temperature over a curing time period of approximately 24 hours. On completion of curing represented by block 37, the panels 3 and 9 are ready for assembly to form the shower enclosure as represented by block 38 of the flow chart 30.

[0127] The method for applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the external surfaces of the frame members 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18, and to the hinges 10 and the handles 11 of the shower enclosure 1 is substantially similar to that described with reference to the flow chart 30 for applying the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to the major surfaces 20 of the panels 3 and 9. Initially, the frame members 14 to 18 and the handle 11 and hinges 10 are subjected to a water, or a water / detergent wash as represented by block 31 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. The frame members 14 to 18 and the hinges 10 and the handles 11 are then subjected to the first drying process as represented by block 32 of the flow chart 30 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. The washed and dried frame members 14 to 18 and the hinges 10 and the handles 11 are then subjected to the two degreasing processes as represented by block 33 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. The degreased frame members 14 to 18 and the hinges 10 and the handles 11 are then dried as represented by block 34 of the flow chart 30 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9.

[0128] The external surfaces of the frame members 14 to 18 and the hinges 10 and handles 11 are then subjected to the plasma treatment as represented by block 35 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. The hydrophobic surface coating is then applied to the external surfaces of the frame members 14 to 18, the hinges 10 and the handles 11 as represented by block 36 and as already described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. The frame members 14 to 18, the hinges 10 and the handles 11 are then placed in an oven for curing the hydrophobic surface coating as represented by block 37 and described with reference to the panels 3 and 9. On completion of curing of the frame members 14 to 18, the hinges 10 and the handles 11, and the frame members 14 to 18 are ready for use.

[0129] The shower enclosure comprising the framework 2 and the panels 3 and 9 is then assembled in conventional fashion.

[0130] Referring now to Fig. 5, Fig. 5 represents plots of the performance of the hydrophobic surface coating described above applied to one of the panels 3 by the method according to the invention, and the performance of the hydrophobic surface coating described above applied to a panel similar to the panels 3, but without subjecting the major surfaces of the panel to the plasma treatment.

[0131] In order to assess the performance of the hydrophobic surface coatings on the two panels, once the hydrophobic surface coating had been cured on the two panels, the panels were subjected to scrub testing. The scrub testing was carried out as a linear abrasion scrub test using a linear abrasion scrub tester and a Scotch Brite pad in accordance with IS0 11998. Periodically, the scrub testing was paused in order to measure the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating on the panels. The water contact angle with which water droplets adhere to the surface of a panel is a recommended way of measuring the cleanability of a surface of a panel. The higher the water contact angle is on a surface, the more easily that surface may be cleaned. Accordingly, in Fig. 5, the number of scrub cycles of the scrub test are plotted on the X axis, while the water contact angle is plotted on the Y axis.

[0132] As can be seen from Fig. 5, the scrub testing of the panels was carried out over approximately 7,600 scrub cycles. The scrub test was paused at approximately 750 scrub cycles, 1 ,250 scrub cycles, 2,400 scrub cycles, 3,600 scrub cycles, 4,600 scrub cycles, 5,600 scrub cycles and was terminated at 7,600 scrub cycles.

[0133] Graph A of Fig. 5 illustrates a plot of the water contact angle against the number of scrub cycles of the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the panel 3 by the method according to the invention. Graph B of Fig. 5 illustrates a plot of the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating of the panel in which the panel was not subjected to the plasma treatment prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating. In both cases, the hydrophobic surface coating was applied to the respective panels at a suitable flow rate to obtain a minimum surface coverage of 60 grams of the hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of the surface.

[0134] As can be seen from graph A, the water contact angle on the hydrophobic surface coating of the panel on which the hydrophobic surface coating was applied according to the method of the invention, produced an initial water contact angle of approximately 105”. The water contact angle in graph A over the 7,600 scrub cycles of the scrub test remained above 90” and only fell to 90” after approximately 4,600 scrub cycles. However, from graph B, it can be seen that initially the water contact angle was approximately 75” for the panel having the hydrophobic surface coating not applied using the method according to the invention. In this panel, the water contact angle fell off quite rapidly to approximately 20” after the first approximately 2,400 scrub cycles. Thereafter, the water contact angle remained substantially constant at 20” up to and including termination of the scrub test at 7,600 cycles.

[0135] Accordingly, it can be seen that by subjecting the surface of the panels to a plasma treatment prior to the application of the hydrophobic surface coating, the durability of the hydrophobic surface coating is significantly enhanced, as is the water contact angle.

[0136] While the method according to the invention has been described for enhancing the cleanability of the panels, door panels, frame members and other components of a shower enclosure, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the method could also be applied to panels, door panels, frame members and other components of a shower screen for similarly enhancing the cleanability thereof .

[0137] While the hydrophobic surface coating has been described as comprising four active constituents, in some embodiments of the invention the hydrophobic surface coating may comprise only three active constituents, and in some embodiments of the invention only two active constituents, and in other embodiments of the invention only one active constituent. In general, it is envisaged that if the hydrophobic surface coating is to comprise only a single active constituent, the active constituent would be ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether. On the other hand, should the hydrophobic surface coating comprise only two active constituents, it is envisaged that the two active constituents would be ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether and any one of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer or a fluorocompound. Furthermore, it is envisaged that in cases where the hydrophobic surface coating is to comprise three active constituents, it is envisaged that the first active constituent would comprise ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, and any two of ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer or a fluorocompound, however, in general, it is envisaged that the hydrophobic surface coating would preferably comprise the two active constituents of ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, and ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether. It will also be appreciated that the hydrophobic surface coating may comprise the active constituents in proportions other than those described herein, and it is envisaged that the proportions of the active constituents in the hydrophobic surface coatings, in which the hydrophobic surface coatings do not comprise all four active constituents will be appropriately selected.

[0138] While it is believed to be preferable to use a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating, it is envisaged that significantly enhanced results may also be achieved by the method according to the invention even when the hydrophobic surface coating is not a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating.

[0139] While the method according to the invention has been described for use in shower enclosures with panels of glass and frame members, handles and hinges of anodised aluminium, it is envisaged that the hydrophobic surface coating may be applied by the method according to the invention to panels of material other than glass, for example, panels of plastics material for shower enclosures and also may be applied by the method according to the invention to elongated frame members handles and hinges of materials other than anodised aluminium, for example, frame members, handles and hinges of plastics material, and typically, metal coated plastics material. Indeed, it will also be appreciated that the hydrophobic surface coating may be applied to frame members, handles and hinges of materials other than anodised aluminium, for example, frame members, handles and hinges of aluminium or aluminium alloy both anodised or aluchrom coated, as well as frame members, handles and hinges of other metal or metal alloys, aluminium alloys and other such metals and metal alloys.

[0140] While the plasma treatment has been carried out using filtered air at room temperature, any other suitable gas or combination of gases may be used. It is also envisaged that where the plasma gas is derived from air, the air may be heated above room temperature.

[0141] While the plasma treatment has been described as being carried out by a plasma generated by an electrical discharge configuration for producing the ionisation of gaseous species comprising dielectric barrier discharge, it is envisaged that other suitable plasma generating systems may be used, for example, the plasma may be generated by any suitable electrical discharge configuration which produces ionisation of gaseous species, such as, corona discharge, gliding arc discharge, micro hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, or any other suitable plasma generating means.

[0142] It is envisaged that in some embodiments of the invention the degreasing process whereby the elements are degreased may be omitted.

[0143] It will also be appreciated that while the hydrophobic surface coating has been described as comprising a concentrated active fluorocompound based composition diluted such that the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises approximately 0.1% by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating, the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition may constitute more than or less than 0.1 % by weight of the hydrophobic surface coating. It will also be appreciated that other suitable diluents for diluting the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition besides those described may be used.

Claims

Claims1. A method for treating an element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure to enhance the cleanability of a surface of the element, the method comprising applying a hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element, and prior to applying the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element pre-treating the surface thereof to increase the bondability properties of the surface of the element for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

2. A method as claimed in Claim 1 in which the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises activating the surface of the element to produce a surface adapted to provide cross-linked bonding for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

3. A method as claimed in Claim 1 or 2 in which the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises activating the surface of the element with a plasma to produce the surface adapted to provide cross-linked bonding for bonding the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

4. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the pre-treating of the surface of the element comprises subjecting the surface thereof to a plasma treatment.

5. A method as claimed in Claim 4 in which the plasma treatment is adapted to activate the surface of the element to produce hydroxyl groups thereon by plasma induced hydroxylation to provide molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the hydrophobic surface coating to the surface of the element.

6. A method as claimed in Claim 4 or 5 in which the plasma treatment of the surface of the element is carried out by subjecting the surface thereof to a stream of ionised gas.

7. A method as claimed in Claim 6 in which the stream of ionised gas is configured to impinge upon the surface of the element.

8. A method as claimed in Claim 6 or 7 in which the gas for carrying out the plasma treatment of the surface of the element is provided at room temperature under atmospheric conditions.

9. A method as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 8 in which the gas used in the plasma treatment ofthe 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. A method as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 9 in which the plasma gas comprises filtered air at room temperature.

11. A method as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 10 in which the plasma is generated by any one of the following electrical discharge configurations for producing ionisation of gaseous species, namely, corona discharge, dielectric barrier discharge, gliding arc discharge, micro hollow cathode discharge, microwave plasma, laser induced plasma, capacitively coupled plasma, electrodeless plasma, and any other suitable electrical discharge configurations for producing ionisation of gaseous species.

12. A method as claimed in Claim 10 in which the plasma is applied to the surface by a dielectric barrier discharge array.

13. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 12 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within twenty-four hours of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

14. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 13 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within two hours of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

15. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 14 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within one hour of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

16. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 15 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element within 30 minutes of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

17. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 16 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element not more than 5 minutes of the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

18. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 17 in which the hydrophobic surface coating isapplied to the surface of the element substantially immediately after the plasma treatment of the surface thereof.

19. A method as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 18 in which prior to plasma treatment of the surface of the element, the surface thereof is subjected to a degreasing treatment.

20. A method as claimed in Claim 19 in which the surface of the element is subjected to the degreasing treatment by subjecting the surface of the element to a degreasing solvent selected from one or more of acetone or isopropyl alcohol.

21. A method as claimed in Claim 20 in which the degreasing treatment of the surface of the element comprises a first degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the surface of the element to an acetone treatment, and a second degreasing treatment comprising subjecting the surface of the element to an isopropyl alcohol treatment subsequent to completion of the first degreasing treatment.

22. A method as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 21 in which prior to subjecting the surface of the element to the degreasing treatment, the surface of the element is subjected to a water wash.

23. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating.

24. A method as claimed in Claim 23 in which the plasma activated surface of the element enables covalent bonding with molecules of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating to ensure molecular anchoring and enhanced surface bonding of the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating with the surface of the element.

25. A method as claimed in Claim 23 or 24 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is diluted from a concentrated active fluorocompound based composition.

26. A method as claimed in Claim 25 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition is represented by the general formula:RCH2Si(OR1)3.

27. A method as claimed in Claim 25 or 26 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises one or more of a number of modified perfluoropolyether formulations.

28. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 27 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises a perfluoropolyether compound containing a functional silane group (Si(0R)3) formulated to enhance bonding to the surface of the element.

29. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 28 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition is represented by the general formula:CF330. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 29 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises one or more of the following active constituents: ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether, ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether, a fluoropolymer, and a fluorocompound.

31. A method as claimed in Claim 30 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether in an amount in the range of 45% to 55% by weight thereof.

32. A method as claimed in Claim 30 or 31 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluoroisobutyl ether in an amount of approximately 50% by weight thereof.

33. A method as claimed in any of Claims 30 to 32 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether in an amount in the range of 25% to 35% by weight thereof.

34. A method as claimed in any of Claims 30 to 33 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether in an amount of approximately 30% byn weight thereof.

35. A method as claimed in any of Claims 30 to 34 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluoropolymer in an amount in the range of 15% to 25% by weight thereof.

36. A method as claimed in any of Claims 30 to 35 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluoropolymer in an amount of less than 20% by weight thereof.

37. A method as claimed in any of Claims 30 to 36 in which the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition comprises the fluorocompound in an amount of less than 5% by weight thereof.

38. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 37 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount in the range of 0.01 % to 1.0% by weight thereof.

39. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 38 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount in the range of 0.05% to 0.5% by weight thereof.

40. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 39 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount of approximately 0.1% by weight thereof.

41. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 40 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating comprises a suitable diluent comprising one or more of hydrofluoroalkanes and hydrofluoroether.

42. A method as claimed in Claim 41 in which the hydrofluoroalkanes comprise a 2H- perfluoropentane and a 3H-perfluoropentane.

43. A method as claimed in Claim 41 or 42 in which the hydrofiuoroether comprises one or more of methoxy-nonafluorobutane or ethoxy-nonafluorobutane.

44. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the hydrophobic surface coating comprises a liquid.

45. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by one of spray coating, dip coating, flow coating, spin coating or by an applicator.

46. A method as claimed in Claim 45 in which the applicator comprises any one of a pad, a brush or a roller.

47. A method as claimed in Claim 45 or 46 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface in the range of 10 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface to 100 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface.

48. A method as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 47 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface in the range of 30 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface to 60 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface.

49. A method as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 48 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element at a rate to provide a coverage of the surface of approximately 50 grams of hydrophobic surface coating per square metre of area of the surface.

50. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at a temperature of not less than room temperature for a period of approximately twenty-four hours.

51. A method as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 49 in which the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface of the element is cured at an elevated temperature.

52. A method as claimed in Claim 51 in which the element is placed in a curing oven to cure thehydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof at a temperature of approximately 60°C for a period of approximately 1 hour.

53. A method as claimed in Claim 51 in which the element is placed in a curing oven to cure the hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof at a temperature of approximately 150”C for a period of approximately 30 minutes.

54. A method as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 43 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by a physical vapour deposition process.

55. A method as claimed in Claim 54 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element by the physical vapour deposition process in vacuum or near-vacuum conditions.

56. A method as claimed in Claim 54 or 55 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating when applied to the surface of the element by the physical vapour deposition process comprises the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in a solid or in a powder form.

57. A method as claimed in Claim 56 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid form is provided in pelletised form.

58. A method as claimed in Claim 56 or 57 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid or powdered form comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount over 80% by weight thereof.

59. A method as claimed in any of Claims 56 to 58 in which the fluorocompound based hydrophobic surface coating in the solid or powdered form comprises the concentrated active fluorocompound based composition in an amount over 90% by weight thereof.

60. A method as claimed in any preceding Claim in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the surface of the element to produce a finished depth of the hydrophobic surface coating in the range of 10 nanometres to 50 micrometres.

61. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the element comprises a panel having a pair of opposite major surfaces, and the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to at least one of the major surfaces of the panel.

62. A method as claimed in Claim 61 in which the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to both of the major surfaces of the panel.

63. A method as claimed in Claim 61 or 62 in which the panel comprises a transparent panel, and preferably, a clear transparent panel'.

64. A method as claimed in any of Claims 61 to 63 in which the panel comprises a panel of glass.

65. A method as claimed in any of Claims 61 to 64 in which the panel comprises a panel of a plastics material.

66. A method as claimed in any of Claims 61 to 65 in which the panel is adapted to form a panel of a shower screen or a shower enclosure.

67. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the element comprises a frame member having an outer surface, and preferably, the hydrophobic surface coating is applied to the external surface thereof, and preferably, the element comprises an elongated frame member.

68. A method as claimed in Claim 67 in which the frame member comprises a metal material.

69. A method as claimed in Claim 67 or 68 in which the frame member comprises a metal alloy material.

70. A method as claimed in any of Claims 67 to 69 in which the frame member comprises aluminium.

71. A method as claimed in Claim 70 in which the frame member comprises an aluminium alloy.

72. A method as claimed in Claim 67 in which the frame member comprises a plastics material.

73. A method as claimed in Claim 72 in which the plastics material of the frame member is coated with a metal coating defining the external surface of the frame member.

74. A method as claimed in any of Claims 67 to 73 in which the frame member is formed by an extrusion process.

75. A method as claimed in any of Claims 67 to 74 in which the frame member is adapted to form a part of a frame of the shower screen or the shower enclosure.

76. A method as claimed in any of Claims 67 to 75 in which the frame member is adapted for joining a pair of panels of the shower screen or the shower enclosure together.

77. A method as claimed in any of Claims 67 to 76 in which the frame member is adapted for securing a panel of the shower screen or the shower enclosure to a wall.

78. A method as claimed in any preceding claim in which the element comprises a component of the shower screen or the shower enclosure.

79. A method as claimed in Claim 78 in which the component comprises one of a door handle or a hinge of the shower screen or the shower enclosure.

80. An element of a shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising a surface thereof coated with a hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof by the method as claimed in any preceding claim.

81. An element as claimed in Claim 80 in which the element comprises a panel.

82. An element as claimed in Claim 81 in which the panel comprises a panel of glass material.

83. An element as claimed in any of Claims 80 to 82 in which the element comprises an elongated frame member.

84. An element as claimed in any of Claims 80 to 83 in which the element comprises a component being one of a handle or a hinge.

85. A shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising at least one of the elements as claimed in any of Claims 80 to 84.

86. A shower screen or a shower enclosure comprising at least one element having a surface thereof coated with a hydrophobic surface coating applied to the surface thereof by the method as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 79.

87. A shower screen or a shower enclosure as claimed in Claim 86 in which the at least one element comprises a panel.

88. A shower screen or a shower enclosure as claimed in Claim 87 in which the panel comprises a panel of glass material.

89. A shower screen or a shower enclosure as claimed in any of Claims 86 to 88 in which the at least one element comprises an elongated frame member.

90. A shower screen or a shower enclosure as claimed in any of Claims 86 to 89 in which the at least one element comprises a component being one of a handle or a hinge.

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