Meta Materials, a developer of high-performance functional materials and nanocomposites, and PPG, a global paint, coatings and specialty materials manufacturer, announced a memorandum of understanding  to develop new ophthalmic smart devices primarily for extended reality (XR) applications.

The collaboration focuses on developing dynamic dimming functionality of META’s NANOWEB transparent conductive film combined with PPG electrochromic gels and META’s ARfusion platform.

“PPG has a proven track record of pioneering solutions for the ophthalmic industry and the prescription eyeglass wearing public for more than 50 years,” said George Palikaras CEO of META. “PPG is a trusted supplier, and we are excited to expand our collaboration by adding PPG’s high-performance chemistries that perfectly complement our unique ARfusion platform and deliver dynamic optics to our growing list of customers.”

PPG and META believe that the XR market, which is an umbrella term that covers virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) applications, can become more viable with more easily cured high index, multi-functional and lightweight smart lenses.

Utilizing META’s ARfusion proprietary technology with ultraviolet (UV) light for curing, the collaboration aims to optimize PPG’s electrochromic gel in combination with PPG’s UV-curable optical monomers to deliver enhanced dynamic dimming functionality for XR eyewear. These materials are being combined for the first time and are expected to lead to more cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing, benefiting all points in the supply chain, from manufacturer to consumer.

“A key challenge for XR eyewear developers is to overcome high-brightness ambient lighting, such as outdoors on a sunny day,” said Jonathan Waldern, CTO of META. “Ramping up display power in these settings greatly shortens battery life. Dynamic dimming should enable a more readable display with more efficient power use.”

"META has the capabilities and resources to lead the development and integration of highly functional materials in smart prescription lenses,” said Ray Hudack, PPG Senior Marketing Manager, Optical Materials and Coatings.

“PPG has extensive experience and IP related to the development, formulation, and application of electrochromic formulations. Together, we aim to develop new ways to advance the next generation ophthalmic optics with new functionality. Through this initiative, we see an opportunity to bring a superior solution to developers of AR/XR smart eyewear and other applications.”