Inks for 3D printing gradient refractive index (GRIN) optical components
US9771490B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 18, 2016 |
| Grant date | Sep 26, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 18, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC09D11/101
- WIPO fieldBasic materials chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Optical inks suitable for 3D printing fabrication of gradient refractive index (GRIN) optical components are composed a monomer matrix material doped with ligand-functionalized nanoparticles, wherein the monomer has a viscosity less than 20 cPoise and is UV curable to form a solid polymer. The matrix material doped with the ligand-functionalized nanoparticles has a transmittance of at least 90% in a predetermined optical wavelength range, wherein the ligand functionalized nanoparticles have a size less than 100 nm, are loaded in the monomer matrix material at a volume percent of at least 2%, and alter an index of refraction of the monomer matrix by at least 0.02. The ligand-functionalized nanoparticles have a plurality of ligands attached to a nanoparticle core surface with an anchor functional group and terminated with a buoy functional group that are reactive, non-reactive, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments the ligands have a length less than 1.2 nm measured radially from the nanoparticle core surface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.