Table 1.
Summary of Spectacle Lens Material Properties,21 Benefits and Recommended Use
| Material | Refractive Index | Density (g/cm3) | Abbe Number | Benefits | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NORMAL INDEX (1.49–1.5) | |||||
| CR-39® | 1.498 | 1.32 | 58 | Widely used due to affordability, relative to glass it is lightweight and some impact resistance, available in fixed or photochromic tints and ARC | Typically for refractive error correction less than 3 dioptres and dress eyewear when lens thickness, weight or ocular safety is not a major consideration |
| MID INDEX (1.54–1.6) | |||||
| Trivex® | 1.527 | 1.11 | 44 | Impact resistance, light weight, inherent UV protection, available in fixed or photochromic tints and ARC | For children, monocular individuals, sporting activities, ocular safety purposes, use in rimless frames |
| Polycarbonate | 1.586 | 1.22 | 30 | ||
| MR-8™ | 1.592 | 1.3 | 41 | Thinner lens profile, available in fixed or photochromic tints and ARC | Typically for refractive error correction above 3 dioptres, use in rimless frames |
| HIGH INDEX (above 1.64) | |||||
| MR-10™ | 1.661 | 1.37 | 32 | Thinner lens profile, available in photochromic tints and ARC | Typically for refractive error correction above 3 dioptres, use in rimless frames |
| MR-174™ | 1.732 | 1.47 | 33 | ||