Photochromic materials capable of undergoing reversible colour changes upon irradiation of light have potential revolutionary applications as optics and electronic devices, information displays and as smart materials. Due to technical limitations it has been so far a niche technology in most markets and currently 80% of their current commercial use is in the ophthalmic sector.
Our fast responsive photochromic films based on nanoencapsulation of the photochromic dyes, provides the speed, transparency, and other technical requirements, which have been hindering the widespread use of photochromatic materials.
Our product responds to a real demand for a functioning fast photochromatic technology by the growing number of consumers of photochromic products. Long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight can lead to vision problems, which include age-related conditions such as macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye dysfunctions. Eye care professionals recommend photochromic lenses to prevent these diseases. In the case of sports eyewear the demand for a photochromic technology capable of fast responses to changes in lighting conditions that works effectively in either cold or hot temperatures is driving intense R&D investment and competition among market players. Fast responsive glasses, helmet face shields and car front shields also increase safety in driving when passing from dark to shining situations or the other way around. By adapting the technology to the standard regulation, Futurechromes technology could contribute to the driving safety.
Over the course of this Phase 1 SME Instrument, our objective was to perform a feasibility study to define our product manufacturing strategy and to validate the viability of our product in the target end-user markets. The overall conclusion of the project work has been that our technology is feasible to enter the sports eyewear and motorcycle helmet visor application markets, and we have developed business planning to support this.
