The material and features of optical lenses
1. Glass lenses
In the early days, the main material for lenses was optical glass. This is mainly due to the high transmittance and good clarity of optical glass lenses, as well as the relatively mature and simple process technology. However, the biggest problem with glass lenses is safety. They have poor impact resistance, are fragile, heavy, and uncomfortable to wear, so their market application is currently limited.
2. Resin lenses
Resin lenses are optical lenses made from resin as raw material, processed, synthesized, and polished through precise chemical processes. The most commonly used material currently is resin lenses, which are lighter in weight than optical glass lenses and have stronger impact resistance than glass lenses. They are less prone to breakage and have higher safety. In terms of price, resin lenses are also more affordable. However, the wear resistance of resin lenses is relatively poor, the oxidation rate is fast, and the surface of the lenses is easily scratched.
3. PC lenses
PC lenses are a type of lens made by shaping polycarbonate (thermoplastic material) after heating. This material originated from the development of the space program, so it is also known as cosmic or space film. Due to its excellent performance as a thermoplastic material, PC resin is more suitable for making eyeglass lenses. The impact resistance of PC lenses is very good, almost not broken, and the safety is very high. In terms of weight, it is lighter than resin lenses. However, there may be difficulties in processing PC lenses, so the price is relatively high.