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Technology

Current polymer windows, lenses, and screens have poor abilities to resist UV degradation. This results in plastics becoming yellow and blocking light. For most applications of these polymers, there is a need for both high light transmission and protection from the elements.

Researchers at UAH have developed a new method for producing polymer windows utilizing ionic liquid epoxy. This new polymer formula provides incredible strength, toughness at cryogenic temperatures, low shrinkage on cure, and excellent survival, even in the harsh conditions of space. The main advantage to this polymer is its superb resistance to UV degradation, something current polymers struggle to do.

The uses for this new technology are far reaching. Spacecraft with solar panels could use this technology to prevent reduced power output resulting from the yellowing and reduced light transmission seen with current polymers used in solar cell windows. Another application is the maritime industry, which sees constant UV abuse from the sun, as well as the corrosive effects of salt water. Similarly, automotive headlights take a battering from the elements and this polymer could prevent yellowing commonly seen after a few years. Applications exist even in the medical field where UV is used to sterilize equipment. This Ionic Liquid Epoxy polymer developed at UAH allows excellent light transmission, while not being subject to UV degradation.