What Is Polycarbonate Lenses?
Polycarbonate lenses are a type of eyeglass lenses made from a strong and lightweight material called polycarbonate. The index is 1.59, sometimes we also call it 1.59 index polycarbonate lenses. The lenses are incredibly durable, able to withstand impact and rough handling without breaking. PC lenses are a versatile choice suitable for various activities, whether it’s for everyday wear, sports, or safety glasses. Their ability to offer both safety and comfort makes them a popular and practical option in the world of eyewear.
Polycarbonate Lenses Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Impact resistance–Polycarbonate lenses have consistently proven to be one of the most impact-resistant lenses on the market. Poly can be up to 10 times more impact-resistant than other lens materials, it’s also a key material in bulletproof glass.
- Lightweight and thin–Polycarbonate lenses are significantly lighter than glass lenses, and often thinner than other types of lenses, which enhances comfort during extended wear.
- UV Protection–Polycarbonate lenses come with built-in UV protection, shielding the eyes from harmful UV rays.
Disadvantages:
- Cost–Polycarbonate lenses can be a little more expensive than standard plastic lense.
- Scratch coating required–A polycarbonate lens is easily scratched, we will coat scrachtch resistant coating apply to all of our pc lenses automatically.
- Low optical clarity–Polycarbonate has the lowest abbe value of the most common lens materials. Some polycarbonate lenses may exhibit chromatic aberration, causing color fringing.
Polycarbonate Lenses vs. Other Types of Lenses
Plastic vs Polycarbonate Lenses
Plastic lenses offer superior optical clarity compared to polycarbonate prescription lenses due to their higher abbe value. Additionally, plastic lenses are typically more cost-effective than poly lenses. Conversely, polycarbonate lenses excel in terms of impact resistance, lightweight, UV protection and overall comfort when compared to plastic lenses.
High Index vs Polycarbonate Lenses
High-index lenses are the preferred choice for individuals with high prescriptions due to their dense composition. This density enables the creation of thinner lenses compared to polycarbonate while effectively correcting vision. Additionally, polycarbonate eyeglass lenses offer significantly greater impact resistance, being approximately 10 times more durable than high-index lenses.
Trivex vs Polycarbonate Lenses
Trivex and pc lenses are both impact resistant, UV blocking and lightweight. Trivex lenses are actually the lightest available, and are 10% lighter than poly lenses, they also have a higher tensile strength. However, trivex are typically not quite as thin as polycarbonate lenses, and they cost more.
Glass vs Polycarbonate Lenses
Glass lenses have a higher level of optical clarity and scratch resistane, but they are fragile and dangerous when broken. Glass lenses are also heavier and thicker than single vision polycarbonate lenses.
Different Types of Polycarbonate Lenses
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How to remove scratches from polycarbonate lenses?
To remove scratches from a polycarbonate lens, start by applying a dime-sized amount of regular toothpaste to a clean cotton cloth. Gently rub the toothpaste in a circular motion on the scratched surface for 10-20 seconds. Then, dampen another clean cloth with cool water and use it to wipe away the toothpaste. Dry the lens with a separate clean cloth. If the scratch remains, repeat the process or try an alternative method involving a black wax china marker.
Are polycarbonate lenses right for you?
In short, polycarbonate is one of the most widely used corrective lens materials. Their lightweight and durable properties make them a great fit for children, active adults, field workers and people who work or spend time in hazardous conditions.
Are polycarbonate lenses worth it?
Poly lenses are a good choice for those who prioritize impact resistance, lightweight comfort, UV protection, and thin lens profiles. However, their worthiness ultimately depends on your individual needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Are polycarbonate lenses scratch resistant?
For durability, polycarbonate requires scratch-resistant coating due to the nature of its materials, which makes it susceptible to scratches.
Do polycarbonate lenses block uv light？
Yes, they do. PC lenses provides nearly 100% UV protection. As the standard for children’s eyewear and safety glasses, polycarbonate lenses are an excellent choice for physical and UV protection.