We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Manufacturing of Soft Contact Lenses Using Reusable and Reliable Cyclic Olefin Copolymer Moulds
Summary
Researchers demonstrated that reusable cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) moulds can reliably manufacture soft contact lenses from both polymer and silicone hydrogel formulations, maintaining high surface quality despite repeated exposure to over 20 kW of UV light. The ultra-precision fabricated COC inserts produced lenses with optical performance comparable to single-use moulds, supporting a more sustainable manufacturing process.
We present experimental evidence of reusable, reliable cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) moulds in soft contact lens manufacturing. The moulds showed high performance surface roughness characteristics despite >20 kW exposure to 365 nm ultraviolet (UV) light from repeated use. Ultra-precision manufacturing techniques were used to fabricate transparent COC mould inserts and to produce soft contact lenses from liquid monomer compositions. Both polymer and silicone hydrogels were fabricated with more than 60 individual uses of the moulds. White light interferometry measured the surface roughness (Sa) of the COC moulds to be almost unchanged before and after repeated use (Sa 16.3 nm before vs. 16.6 nm after). The surface roughness of the prototyped lenses and that of commercially available soft contact lenses were then compared by white light interferometry. The surface roughness of the lenses was also nearly unchanged, despite undergoing more than 60 uses of the COC moulds (lens Sa 24.4 nm before vs. after Sa 26.5 nm). By comparison the roughness of the commercial lenses ranged from 9.3−28.5 nm, including conventional and silicone lenses, indicating that the reusable COC moulds produced competitive surface properties. In summary, COC moulds have potential as reusable and reliable mould inserts in the manufacturing of soft contact lenses, yet maintain high quality optical surfaces even after sustained exposure to UV light.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
A polymer-based technique to remove pollutants from soft contact lenses
Researchers developed a new polymer-based technique using silicone (PDMS) to physically remove surface contaminants from soft contact lenses more effectively than conventional rinsing. The method is relevant to understanding how plastic surfaces interact with and retain environmental particles and contaminants.
Thermal testing of ophthalmic lenses to establish environmental impact: Implications for sustainable waste management practices and training for healthcare professionals
This study evaluated thermal testing of ophthalmic lenses to assess environmental impact and establish standards for plastic lens sustainability, examining how temperature cycling affects lens material integrity and degradation potential.
Revolutionizing contact lens manufacturing: exploring cutting-edge techniques and innovations for enhanced vision and comfort
This review covers advances in contact lens manufacturing, including new materials, 3D printing techniques, and nanotechnology coatings for better comfort and vision. While not directly about microplastics, contact lenses are a known source of microplastic pollution when disposed of improperly, and the polymer materials used in lenses can shed microplastic particles. The development of more biocompatible lens materials could have implications for reducing microplastic exposure to the eye and the environment.
Environmental impact and end-of-life options of disposed polymeric spectacle and contact lenses
Researchers examined the environmental impact and end-of-life options for polymeric spectacle and contact lenses using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and calorific value measurements. Metal ion analysis confirmed the presence of multiple metals in lens polymers, raising concerns about their environmental fate upon disposal and informing potential recycling or energy recovery pathways.
High-Content Screening Discovers Microplastics Released by Contact Lenses under Sunlight
Using a high-content screening method, researchers discovered that contact lenses release microplastic particles when exposed to sunlight. The study detected hundreds of particles shed from lenses after UV exposure, with quantity varying by lens brand and material. Since contact lenses sit directly on the eye, this finding raises questions about a previously unrecognized route of microplastic exposure.