Injection molded optical lenses are typically manufactured using the following highly transparent plastic materials, each of which has unique optical and physical properties:

1. Polycarbonate (PC) :

High impact resistance and good heat resistance.

High light transmittance, but more sensitive to ultraviolet light.

2, Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA or Acrylic) :

Also known as Plexiglas or Plexiglas (trade name).

Excellent light transmission and weather resistance, more resistant to UV than PC.

But more fragile than the PC, fragile.

3, Polyimide (PI) :

High heat resistance, high mechanical strength.

Lenses for high temperature environments.

5, glass fiber reinforced composite material:

It is often mixed with other plastics, such as PC or PMMA, to increase mechanical strength.

6. Polyphenylene Ether (PPE) :

Many PPE alloys have good optical quality and good chemical resistance.

7, Epoxy Resin:

Good chemical stability and adhesion.

It can be cast into a variety of shapes, but is not usually suitable for mass production.

8. Polyolefin, such as Cyclo Olefin Polymer (COP) and Cyclo Olefin Copolymer (COC) :

High transparency, low water absorption, good chemical and high temperature resistance.

9. Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) :

Resistant to chemicals and high temperatures, but may not be as transparent as the above materials.

10, PMMI is Poly(Methyl Methacrylate Isomers) :

It usually refers to a polymer material that is similar to ordinary polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA, also known as acrylic or plexiglass), but contains different isomers in the molecular structure. PMMI has physical and optical properties similar to PMMA, but can have a higher glass transition temperature (Tg), providing better thermal stability and dimensional stability.

In the application of optical lenses, a higher glass transition temperature means that the material can remain morphological and dimensional stable over a wider temperature range, which is important for certain optical systems that need to operate at high temperatures. In addition, like PMMA, PMMI can also provide high light transmittance and low dispersion, which makes them suitable for manufacturing lenses, optical Windows, optical guides, and other visually transparent components. However, please note that PMMI may not be a very common term or widely used material, so in practical applications, it may be necessary to pay special attention to the specific performance and application recommendations provided by the material supplier when referring to PMMI.

Choosing the right material depends on the application and environment in which the lens will be used. For example, if the lens needs high impact resistance, polycarbonate may be a good choice; For long-term outdoor exposure, PMMA may be a better choice. In addition, it is also necessary to consider the compatibility of the injection molding process, including the fluidity of the material, thermal deformation temperature, shrinkage rate and other factors.