3D Printing of Nanocomposite Visual Aids for Color Blinds Patients

Abstract

Color vision deficiency (CVD), commonly referred to as color blindness, is a genetic eye disorder that usually is present from birth. A large number of individuals struggle with CVD, with higher rates among males compared to females. There is currently no treatment for the disorder, and thus patients use wearable aids like lenses and spectacles that filter colors. Wearable devices are not capable of curing the disorder but improve color perception in individuals by filtering out problematic wavelengths. In this study, commercial contact lenses and 3D printed lenses were functionalized in order to block the problematic wavelengths (540580 nm) of red-green color blindness. The functionalization of the lenses was achieved by integrating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) into the matrices (cross-sections) of the lenses. The insitu synthesis was conducted using several chemical approaches and the properties of produced lenses such as water content and contact angles were tested and characterized extensively. Furthermore, characterization techniques including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were utilized for particles analysis. The aims of this project were successfully achieved and contact lenses for CVD management were successfully fabricated. The properties of the produced lenses were found to be consistent and similar to the literature. The ability of the lenses in the applications of reducing corneal bacteria and green laser shielding was as well assessed and found to be successful.

Date of Award	22 Apr 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	HAIDER BUTT (Supervisor)