Invention:
This invention describes a range of low-cost polymer compositions and method of making for high index, high Abbe number consumer optics. This process improves upon the synthesis of thermoplastic and thermoset polymers, achieving both high molecular weight in linear thermoplastics and highly crosslinked thermosets. It was also found that these materials possess a favorable synergy of low-cost monomers like sulfur monochlorides and allylic monomers.
Background:
The consumer eyewear global market estimated at greater than $100 billion. Current optical polymer technology revolves around well-established thermoplastic or thermoset polymers, including polycarbonates and others. State-of-the-art known optical polymers are limited by a trade-off between the desire to have high refractive indices, high Abbe (transparency) numbers, and low material cost. There remains a technological need for new polymer chemistry to achieve desired optical properties at low cost. Increases in the accessibility of and need for optical materials in eyewear, screens, cameras, and laboratory equipment markets are expected to continue to drive growth well into the future.
Applications:
- Consumer optical plastics
- Smartphone or technology optical plastics
- Optical lenses for instruments
Advantages:
- Inexpensive materials
- High index
- High Abbe number
- Thermally stable
- Improved thermoplastic and thermoset polymer synthesis
- Achieves high molecular weight in linear thermoplastics and crosslinked thermosets
- Favorable synergy of low-cost monomers (sulfur monochlorides and allylic monomers)
