UV+420cut™

Material for eyeglass lenses

Applications detail

A lens that uses optical wavelength control technology to block certain components of the harmful ultraviolet (UV) and high-energy visible (HEV) light spectrum

Characteristics

Overview

This lens material makes use of optical wavelength control technology to block harmful ultraviolet (UV) and high-energy visible (HEV) light in the 400–420 nm wavelength range to block a wider range of harmful wavelengths, in particular, outdoors.

Blocking Harmful Light

Over a short term, ultraviolet light inflames the cornea. Over the long term, it leads to cataracts.*1 Light in the visible range also contains high-energy visible (HEV) light in the 400–500 nm range, which can cause age-related macular degeneration over the long term.*2
Applying our UV+420cut™ technology, we’ve created clear lens for everyday use that block light in the UV to 420 nm range.

uv420_fig_01-en *measured with hard multi coated lens, 2 mm thick at center
Natural Colors

This lens is clear and has a neutral natural-looking color. Our eyes are exposed to UV radiation even on partly clouded days: at levels of 40–75 % compared to sunny days. On completely overcast and rainy days, this is still 20–30 %.*3 These clear lenses can be used to cut UV light and worn normally even on cloudy or rainy days. They’re recommended for the long-term health of your eyes.

In-Mass Technology

Popular HEV-light-blocking lenses feature special coatings on their surfaces that reflect HEV light. In contrast, our in-mass UV+420cut™ lens incorporates photochromatic pigments blended into the material itself to absorb harmful light. It offers strong, long-lasting UV-blocking performance that isn’t degraded by surface scratches. It’s also free of unappealing blue reflections.

Coated lens

uv420_fig_02-01

In-mass lens

uv420_fig_02-02

*1 Protection for the naked eye. 2015 UV protection report. The vision council.

*2 Wu, J.; Seregard, S.; Algvere, P.V. Photochemical damgage of the retina. Surv Ophthalmol 2006, 51, 461-481. / Jarrett, S.G.; Boulton, M.E. Consequences of oxidative stress in age-related macular degeneration. Mol Aspects Med 2012, 33, 399-417.

*3 Japan Meteorological Agency website

Contact Us

Mitsui Chemicals Europe GmbH
TEL +49 (0) 211-17332-0