Analysis of the dispersion of optical plastic materials

Several methods are being used to measure and analyze chromatic dispersion characteristic of optical plastic (OP) materials. Analysis and measurement of chromatic dispersion of optical plastic materials is essential to develop better optical systems, devices, and for their successful application in different fields. Some of the chromatic dispersion characteristics of OPs, include optical refraction, transmission, birefringence, haze, and homogeneity. The Federal Test Method is one of the methods that uses the Abbe refractometer, to analyze and determine the refractive indices of transparent optical plastic materials. The method operates with a white light source and Amici prisms that are used as color compensators. Companies producing trade-marks of optical plastic materials are also providing information about their refractometric and dispersive characteristics.