LaunchPad: Spectacle Lenses Angel 7 Industries, PPG Partner on Next Gen Lens Tech By Staff Thursday, October 15, 2020 8:30 AM Product: i-RMR Top Line: Angel 7 Industries (A7) is partnering with PPG to provide coatings and other supply materials for i-RMR, its next-generation lens technology. The partnership will begin with PPG supplying specific coatings for specific applications for military and law enforcement eye protection, in addition to some existing products. Close Up: PPG, a leading global supplier of paints, coatings, and specialty materials, has more than 70 years of experience engineering and producing optical grade monomers and coatings typically used in the manufacturing of ophthalmic lenses. “This is the most logical partnership we could have with our i-RMR technology to date,” said Kerry Harris, A7’s director and chief technology officer (CTO). “Because we produce the most durable eye protection in the world, PPG will enhance our existing technology for future product capabilities. We are excited for this partnership and where it can go in the future concerning product advancements. Welcome to the next level.” Believed to be one of the world’s strongest lens technologies, A7’s i-RMR substrate has demonstrated the ability to not only stop a shot from a 12-guage shotgun at 10 feet away but also a shot from a .22 long rifle from 5 feet away without any penetration or deformation of the lens while being in a photochromic state. PPG will provide its PPG Hi-Gard lens coating solution, a durable, scratch-resistant coating that offers four to six times more abrasion resistance than uncoated lenses as well as further product options involving coatings and materials. “A the center of PPG’s mission is a commitment to ‘protect and beautify the world’, and we truly feel we are living up to that mission in our partnership with A7,” commented Keith Cross, PPG co-leader and global director, strategic marketing, optical monomers and coatings. Vital Stats: Currently, A7 eye protection is available in two enhanced ballistic models: i-RMR and i-RMR/Ghost Shield Photochromic. Both can be combined with other lens technologies into a single product. These lenses also incorporate highly effective anti-fog, anti-scratch and hydrophobic layers that provide fog free vision and unmatched durability against sand, chemicals, fuels, and saltwater. www.angel7industries.com; www.ppgoptical.com