Author: Joel Harrison
Posted: 24 July 2010 14:23
Though eyeglasses that react to light have been available for decades, researches have had problems developing contact lenses with similar capabilities. The previous attempts were largely unsuccessful because it is extremely difficult to apply the special dye uniformly to the surface of a contact lens.
The researchers from the Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (IBN) in Singapore used a new polymer that makes it possible to embed dyes in the material of the lens itself, so it is not necessary to put it on the surface of the lens. What is more, dyes may be distributed uniformly, which in turn allows manufacturers to embed more dye molecules, resulting in enhanced sensitivity to light and a faster reaction. The latter has been increased so dramatically that they may react ten to even twenty times faster than photochromic eyeglasses. This is especially important for drivers, who need clear vision at all times.
Having successfully tested the material on rabbits, the researchers are now preparing to test the lenses on humans. It is, however, unknown when the new lenses will be ready for mass production.
