Common Micro Optics Questions, Explained

By Rick Brown

Micro optics within the micro injection molding space requires expert engineering and experience, especially when your goal is to achieve tolerances down to the half micron. Here are common questions our resident micro optics engineer Rick Brown gets on a frequent basis.

What is the highest refractive index polymer that can be micro molded?

Engineers care about refractive index because better clarity and less light loss through the lens are important in micro optics, specifically imaging optics. Couplers and sensors are less affected by light loss and clarity.

The highest refractive index polymer that can be molded is 1.68 on the refractive index. The material used to achieve this is from Osaka chemical. Osaka chemicals has a line of optical grade materials that go up to 1.68. It’s important to note, these criteria aren’t set in stone to achieve the 1.68, IR is determined by the micro mold materials used.