Injection-molded optical lenses are typically made from the following high-transparency plastic materials, each with unique optical and physical properties:
1. Polycarbonate (PC):
High impact resistance and good heat resistance.
High light transmittance, but sensitive to ultraviolet light.
2. Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA or Acrylic):
Also known as plexiglass or Plexiglas (trade name).
Excellent light transmittance and weather resistance, more UV resistant than PC.
However, more fragile and brittle than PC.
3. Polyimide (PI):
High heat resistance and relatively high mechanical strength.
Suitable for lenses in high-temperature environments.
5. Glass fiber reinforced composites:
Usually blended with other plastics (such as PC or PMMA) to enhance mechanical strength.
6. Polyphenylene Ether (PPE):
Many PPE alloys possess good optical quality and relatively good chemical resistance.
7. Epoxy Resin:
Good chemical stability and adhesion.
Can be cast into various shapes, but generally not suitable for large-scale production.
8. Polyolefins, such as Cyclo Olefin Polymer (COP) and Cyclo Olefin Copolymer (COC):
High transparency, low water absorption, and good chemical and high-temperature resistance.
9. Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS):
Resistant to chemicals and high temperatures, but its transparency may be lower than the materials mentioned above.
10. PMMI stands for Poly(Methyl Methacrylate Isomers):
This usually refers to a polymer material similar to common polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, also known as acrylic or plexiglass), but containing different isomers in its molecular structure. PMMI's physical and optical properties are similar to PMMA, but it can have a higher glass transition temperature (Tg), providing better thermal and dimensional stability.
In optical lens applications, a higher glass transition temperature means the material can maintain morphological and dimensional stability over a wider temperature range, which is crucial for some optical systems that need to operate at high temperatures. Furthermore, like PMMA, PMMI can offer high light transmittance and low dispersion, making it suitable for manufacturing lenses, optical windows, optical fibers, and other visually transparent components. However, note that PMMI may not be a very common term or a widely used material, so in practical applications, when referring to PMMI, it may be necessary to pay special attention to the specific performance and application recommendations provided by the material supplier.
Choosing the appropriate material depends on the application and environment in which the lens will be used. For example, polycarbonate might be a good choice if the lens requires high impact resistance; PMMA might be a better choice if it needs to be exposed to outdoor environments for extended periods. Furthermore, the compatibility of the injection molding process must be considered, including factors such as material flowability, heat distortion temperature, and shrinkage rate.
and well:
The main materials for injection-molded optical lenses are thermoplastics like polycarbonate (PC), acrylic (PMMA), and polystyrene (PS), each chosen for specific properties like impact resistance, clarity, and cost. Other materials include cyclic-olefin polymers (COPs), cyclic-olefin copolymers (COCs), and silicone.
Polycarbonate (PC): Known for its high impact resistance and optical clarity, making it suitable for applications like safety glasses and outdoor lenses. It maintains structural integrity even when molded into complex shapes.
Acrylic (PMMA): Often called "acrylic glass," it offers excellent clarity, gloss, and scratch resistance. It's less expensive than PC and is frequently used for applications where impact resistance is not the primary concern, such as signs and optical fibers.
Polystyrene (PS): A cost-effective option with a low shrinkage rate, which makes it good for intricate, detailed designs. However, it is more easily scratched and has lower UV resistance compared to other materials.
Cyclic-Olefin Polymers (COPs) and Copolymers (COCs): These are specialty polymers with properties such as low birefringence and high-temperature performance.
Silicone: Optical silicone rubber (OSLR) and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) are used for their flexibility, high-temperature resistance, and biocompatibility, and are common in medical applications like intraocular lenses.
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