Ppg Industries introduces CR-39 Licensed Lens Caster Program at Mido

Sixty years ago, PPG Industries, Inc. was awarded the patent for CR-39 monomer, which became the first resin to be widely used in the manufacture of plastic ophthalmic lenses, and today represents the largest category of lenses sold worldwide. In honor of this milestone, PPG is launching a program to recognize its partners, who have played an important role in the growth of CR-39 monomer and who remain committed to supplying it to the industry. The CR-39 Licensed Lens Caster Program was unveiled at PPG's booth last Friday at the Mido 2006 exhibition in Milan, Italy.

'The fact that CR-39 monomer is still such a highly-utilized lens material worldwide demonstrates that the marketplace continues to rely on its excellent value proposition,' said Christine Camsuzou, PPG general manager of optical materials. 'We feel we should defend the value behind the CR-39 trademark to ensure that the industry is receiving the authentic CR-39 monomer they have depended on for so many years'.

The 'CR-39 Licensed Lens Caster Program' identifies those casters who are dedicated to preserving the integrity of CR-39 monomer, and promotes them as preferred sources for lenses made from the material. The program's objective is to provide assurance to labs and retailers that they are getting the product they trust when they specify lenses made with CR-39 monomer.

The program requires that no hybrid formulations that mix CR-39 monomer with other monomers are marketed as 'made from 100 percent CR-39 monomer.' Program participants have committed to adhering to guidelines for usage of the CR-39 trademark and to providing only lenses made with CR-39 monomer to customers who specify or request the resin by name.

The 'CR-39 Licensed Lens Caster Program' and its members will be highlighted in advertising and at industry trade shows throughout the year. In addition, a web site will provide a listing of program participants.