PPG TRIVEX Lens Material Outperforms Polycarbonate in Impact Resistance and Optical Clarity

PPG (NYSE:PPG) today announced the results of testing conducted in collaboration with HOYA Vision Care to compare the performance of PPG TRIVEX® lens material against polycarbonate across multiple optical and durability categories. The data showed that HOYA PHOENIX® lenses made with PPG Trivex lens material demonstrated less damage in impact tests, were lighter in weight, exhibited higher optical clarity and better chemical resistance compared to comparable polycarbonate lenses.

The research was designed to test the impact performance of PPG Trivex lens material against polycarbonate, a popular lens material used in prescription eyewear. Data on other properties, including weight, chemical resistance and key optical data such as Abbe value and birefringence, were compiled from previous research. The findings provide a scientific basis for eye care professionals to recommend HOYA Phoenix lenses made with PPG Trivex lens material as a high-performance alternative to polycarbonate.

Raymond Hudack, Global Business Director, PPG Specialty Products, Optical Monomers and Coatings, said: "Today's patients have high expectations from their eyeglasses. Lenses should deliver lightweight comfort, exceptional optical clarity and protection against everyday wear and tear. PPG Trivex lens material raises the bar for high-performance lenses and gives eye care professionals the opportunity to differentiate their practices with a proven solution."

Polycarbonate and PPG Trivex lens materials are classified as high-impact materials under the fundamental ANSI Z87.1 and FDA industry standards. However, standard Gardner impact testing showed that polycarbonate sustained permanent pitting damage under high impact forces. HOYA Phoenix lenses made with PPG Trivex lens material demonstrated minimal surface blemishes at the same impact, exhibiting advanced performance for demanding environments such as sports and industrial eyewear.

PPG Trivex lens material demonstrates exceptional optical clarity due to its high Abbe value, a measure of how well a lens maintains optical quality and controls color distortion. This reduces the "rainbow blur" visible at lens edges and provides consistent sharpness throughout the lens. The cast molding manufacturing process further enhances clarity by reducing birefringence, the phenomenon where stress within a lens bends light in different directions causing haziness or distortion. Together, these properties provide uniform clarity across the lens surface.

In chemical resistance testing, PPG Trivex lens material remained stable under prolonged exposure to laboratory solvents, while polycarbonate lenses showed visible surface damage and whitening. These advantages translate to clear, crisp optics, lightweight comfort and enhanced durability for long-term performance and improved patient satisfaction.

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