“PLATIO” is an unconventional, primarily outdoor energy producing, modular paving system optionally equipped with information technological functions.
Platio provides an aesthetic and space-saving off-grid renewable energy system by integrating high-performance solar cells into attractive sidewalk paving elements made of recycled plastic. Electricity generated during sunshine hours can be stored by energy saving units or be used to operate functions integrated into the pavement or nearby electric devices of public places (public lighting, traffic control systems, other energy consuming street contrivances) independently from the grid.
Unlike other in-pavement integrated renewable energy technologies, Platio is easy to install and maintain, since it does not require a special foundation and also it is modularly upgradeable with several further smart functions.
How is slip-protectionsolved for Platio pavings?
For the solar powered version’s glass cover we can offer various types of slip-protection based on the customer’s requirement. It is possible to create various ribbed shapes and patterns, which will prevent slipping based on interlocking shapes. As an alternative, Al2O3 can be applied and burnt in to the surface, which can provide a long lasting slip-protection. This substance due to its basic physical properties can create sufficient friction both in wet and dry weather. When the above mentioned two methods are not feasible, a special transparent hydrophobic polymer can be applied on the glass creating a hydrophobic layer that can prevent the formation of water-films between the shoe sole or car tire and the glass, which will result in a slip-free surface.
How theft-proof are the Platio pavings?
Platio units are linked with retainers, which apart from making it easier to lay it down, also make the paving more resistant and prevent the units to be raised. The covers can be replaced on the units, however, a special tool is needed for this, with which large force can be applied to a specific point; hence, in practice, no one without a tool will be able to lift it off.
How does Platio product line become vandal-resistant?
In case of the solar powered units the wearing course is tempered glass. These glasses’ compressive strength is very high: 1000 N/m2. This means to break a 1 cm x 1 cm square made of this material a burden of 10 tons is needed, this is what its incredible bearing capacity derives from. Its resistance to hitting is nevertheless lower: 200 N/m2, still, this enough to resist all kinds of everyday stress. For a vandal to be able to damage it, a strong hit by an at least 5 kg hammer is needed. The glass will remain in one piece and suitable for walking even in case of breakage. Because of its specific fracture pattern it cannot cause any injuries; only its electrical performance will be decreased. The total thermal expansion in case of this cover is just 0.2 mm.
What kind of maintenance is needed for Platio pavings?
In normal cases the units require no special maintenance, only cleaning with water when the surface gets visually dirty or large amount of intransparent material gets on the surface blocking the solar panels. In case of damage of a unit, the covers can be easily replaced with a special tool.
