Nanoparticle-loaded UV-blocking contact lenses

We have developed a novel approach of incorporating UV-blocking features into contact lenses by dispersing nanoparticles into the lenses. The nanoparticles are prepared by controlling polymerization dynamics using chain terminating and chain transfer agents. A theoretical model is developed to predict the effect of various formulation parameters on the particle size. This approach can produce UV-blocking nanoparticles of controlled size below 10 nm in diameter with close to 10% conversion. The model predictions for the mean size are in reasonable agreement with the experimental data. The nanoparticles are cleaned and loaded in silicone hydrogel contact lenses by soaking the lenses in a solution of particles in ethanol and acetone. Lenses loaded with about 6% particles w/w in the hydrated lens block sufficient UV light to be classified as Class 1 blockers. The nanoparticles are retained in the lens during soaking in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and are stable to sterilization by autoclaving. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42495.