New optical instrument partnership agreed
7 Jul 2017 by Evoluted New Media
A new five-year partnership has begun between Merck and the University of Leeds to expand the use of liquid crystals in optical innovations.
A new five-year partnership has begun between Merck and the University of Leeds to expand the use of liquid crystals in optical innovations.
The collaboration will focus on developing liquid crystals, used in smartphones and TV screens into non-display instruments such as switchable contact lenses and virtual-reality glasses. Merck will invest £1m in this collaboration.Sir Alan Langlands, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds, said: “This exciting research collaboration reflects our determination to develop real-world solutions from science and engineering research. Our University has a strong track record of world-leading research in liquid crystals. Its academics have a growing reputation for inventing applications for liquid crystals way beyond the technology familiar to most of us through flat screen monitors and televisions.”
Liquid crystal research
Any developed applications will be patented jointly by the company and the University. The University’s most recent work involves using liquid crystals and graphene to create switchable contact lenses. Research has also been carried out on liquid crystal elastomers for improved eye implants.Professor Gleeson, also from the University, said: “Our ability to translate our fundamental research into world-leading applications and this important collaboration will uniquely place us to deliver completely new applications of liquid crystals.” The University is currently investing £100m to integrate Engineering and Physical Sciences, due to open in 2020.
