Face and eye protective equipment are typically made of molded polycarbonate having visible light transmission of about 90% with the remaining 10% of the light reflected at the air-polymer interface causing glare and discomfort to the eyes. To help solve this problem, anti-reflective coatings are typically applied at the interface to reduce light reflection and maximize light transmission. We developed a novel two-layer coating that provides a cost-effective anti-reflective performance for polycarbonate substrates such as safety eyewear and face shields. The coating provides additional benefits of abrasion resistance, easy-clean, and anti-static.<br/>In this presentation we will describe the composition and properties of the two-layer super-hydrophobic coating system. The first layer is a high refractive index composition applied directly to the polycarbonate surface. It comprises functionalized zirconia nano-particles and a thermally curable, quaternary amine and silane copolymer binder. The second layer is a low refractive index composition applied on top of the first layer. It comprises a moisture-cured fluoro silane polymer. The two-layer coating is curable at relatively low temperature. It can be applied using dip coating, flow coating, spin coating or roll-to-roll coating methods.<br/>Data generated using standard test methods show improved light transmission up to 97% with this coating and a three -fold improvement in abrasion resistance compared to uncoated polycarbonate. Moreover, the coating imparts anti-static and easy-clean functionality, enhancing the product performance and durability.<br/>

Super-hydrophobic optical coatings for eye and face personal protective equipment: Delivering anti-reflective, anti-static, abrasion resistant and easy clean function to complex curved substrates

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.