What material is known to be the most impact resistant for eyewear?

Polycarbonate is recognized as the most impact-resistant material for eyewear due to its inherent properties. It is a type of thermoplastic that is both lightweight and exceptionally tough, which makes it highly resistant to breaking and shattering upon impact. This strength stems from its molecular structure, which allows it to absorb energy more effectively than other materials.

In addition to its impact resistance, polycarbonate offers other advantageous features for eyewear. It typically has built-in UV protection, which helps shield the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. The lightweight nature of polycarbonate lenses also enhances comfort, making them a popular choice for safety glasses, sports eyewear, and children's glasses.

While CR-39, glass, and Trivex are often used for making lenses, they do not match the level of impact resistance provided by polycarbonate. CR-39 lenses, for example, are more scratch-resistant and slightly less expensive but are significantly more prone to breakage under impact. Glass lenses offer superior optical clarity and scratch resistance but are heavier and can shatter, posing a greater risk of injury. Trivex is also a lightweight and impact-resistant material but generally falls short of polycarbonate in terms of overall toughness.

This combination of lightweight, strength, and impact resistance makes poly