Application of imidazole-based antistatic coating on optical lens

Several aspects in optical quality and mechanical resistance have been considered in development of optical coating. In this study, imidazole-based anti-static solution was copolymerized on surfaces of optical lenses. The coated lenses showed high quality of optical properties and resistance to organic solvents, surfactants, and warm water. Electrostatic potentials on the coating membrane decreased with increasing composition of imidazole, while more than 2% imidazole coats showed considerable anti-static capability in 30-50% humidity conditions. Furthermore, short half-life of electrostatic potentials, approximately 2 sec, was observed in the groups of 1% imidazole coat in the ambient humidity condition. This anti-static function had been retained for more than 8 weeks, when 4% of imidazole was composed in coating solutions. The present imidazole-based acrylate polymer coating exhibited durability, comparable anti-statics capability, and optical property. Thus, it is expected to facilitate the functionalization of various optical materials.