Increased Plastic Oxygen/Water Barriers

The reduction of the weight of individual equipment components is one of the main objectives in the Army's quest for a lighter, more mobile force. Special attention is required for non-structural components, because the potential for weight reduction without compromising battle field survivability is greatest in this area. Optical components are usually made from glass, which has a high density and, therefore, high weight. High grade optical plastics are available, that could lead to significant weight reduction. Unfortunately today's materials do not provide the necessary non-optical properties desired for a military application, this is especially true in regards to the permeability for oxygen and water Adherent Technologies, Inc has studied the surface modification of polymeric and composite materials using plasma for over 10 years. Plasma induced surface polymerization has been shown to be a powerful tool in changing the surface properties of materials. Thin coats of hydrophobic and oxygen impermeable polymers can be covalently bound to optical materials. Surface polymerization is a fast way to modify existing polymer based optical materials in a way that makes them acceptable for use in a military environment. This technology allows the rapid acceptance of polymeric materials for optical parts at low cost.