5 Tips to Keep Your Safety Glasses from Fogging Up – Thankfully, there are a variety of anti-fog solutions for all types of eyewear. Here are five tips to help eliminate or reduce lens fogging.
Invest in anti-fog safety glasses. This is probably the best solution for those who regularly struggle with fogging safety glasses because of their work environment. Fortunately, safety glasses resistant to fog are both abundant and cost-effective. They’re also your best bet to ensure your safety glasses don’t fog up. Start with this extensive list of anti-fog safety glasses in various styles. If you work in an environment where lens fogging is severe, you’ll want to look at Edge Eyewear’s Vapor Shield or Pyramex H2MAX products. Apply anti-fog coating, Anti-fog sprays, wipes, and gels can help eliminate the fogging problem. Apply the coating to both sides of lenses to reduce fog by forming a barrier that keeps moisture from condensing. Remember that you’ll have to reapply the anti-fog treatment after cleaning your eyewear. Check out our How to Use Anti-Fog Solutions post for more details. Try a different eyewear design. Fogging may be caused by wearing safety glasses that are too tight and preventing adequate airflow. Instead, try a style that allows more air to flow around lenses. The right fit can go a long way in preventing your safety glasses from fogging. Consider some home remedies. Some people apply shaving cream to lenses to create a protective barrier. Others use bar soap or spit. They apply, let dry, then wipe off, and many believe these remedies are better options than store-bought products. However, use with caution as certain chemicals can remove your lens coatings. Make some simple adjustments. This includes wearing just enough clothes to stay comfortable rather than wearing so many you sweat. Related to this are adjusting scarves and high-collared coats that can trap moisture and push it towards your eyes. Another tip is to slightly pull your safety glasses away from your face to prevent heat and moisture from getting trapped and causing fog. Just a little cool airflow might be all you need.
Contents
- 1 What can I use instead of anti-fog for goggles?
- 2 Why do safety goggles fog up?
- 3 What can you use instead of anti-fog spray?
- 4 Does salt water ruin goggles?
- 5 What is a natural anti-fog?
- 6 Does shampoo work as anti-fog?
- 7 How do you keep goggles from fogging while snorkeling?
- 8 How long do you leave toothpaste on goggles?
- 9 What material is anti-fog?
- 10 How do you make anti-fog solution for swim goggles?
What can I use instead of anti-fog for goggles?
Antifog Home Remedy #2: Dish-soap – Dish soap is an anti-fog rubbing compound and is supremely effective at stopping fog build-up on glasses and goggles. In the same way of application as other compounds, just put a drop of dish soap on a clean rag, and rub until the point when you have a clean lens.
Why do safety goggles fog up?
The cause of fogging – Fogging in safety eyewear occurs when lenses are cooler than the ambient air temperature, causing condensation. “Air trapped between the glasses and the wearer’s face is hotter and more humid because the worker’s skin is hotter and perspiring, increasing the likelihood of fog,” Talbot wrote.
- He added that wrap-around eyewear and goggles, especially under a visor, offers greater protection from injury.
- However they may also reduce airflow and make fogging more likely.
- Jodi Grohe, also in Occupational Health & Safety Online, wrote that sudden environmental changes present workplace hazards.
For instance, opening the door of an oven; stepping from air-conditioning into a hot, muggy day or going in and out of coolers. She said workers in full-body PPE face a greater risk of fogging. The “closed system” prevents heat and moisture from escaping, making the worker perspire more.
Does saliva stop goggles from fogging?
If there is one thing that annoys swimmers, it’s when goggles fog up in a middle of a lap. Foggy goggles can be a pain as you lose clear sight of where you are swimming towards, and of surrounding obstructions. Why do our goggles fog up? Because our body temperature is higher than the water we are swimming in.
This leads to condensation, which causes the fog in our goggles. Most goggles have an anti-fog layer, but it wears off over time, and that’s when trouble starts. It can be expensive to replace your foggy goggles every time the anti-fog coating becomes ineffective. And the good news is, you don’t have to! Here are some tricks we have up our swimsuits that will help get rid of that fog in your goggles.1.
Your Saliva Shocked? It really does work! The human saliva is surprisingly effective in keeping your goggles fog-free. This is because saliva is a type of surfactant that can break surface tension, and prevents fog molecules from sticking together. All you need to do is simply spit on the inside of your goggle lenses before you swim, and rub it around to make sure the entire lens is coated.
- Only a small amount of saliva is required.
- Too much will only cause a huge mess in your goggles! Saliva is a great cost-free method that you can use any time! However, do note that it is only a short-term solution.
- Despite that, it is still an effective way to clear up your foggy goggles during your laps! 2.
Baby Shampoo This may seem like an unorthodox method, but it has worked for many! Baby shampoo is also a surfactant and will thus help to prevent fogging in your goggles. If you are not comfortable with the idea of spitting into your foggy goggles, this is a great substitute for you! Just by applying a coating on the inside of your lens, a thin film of protection is formed and condensation will be kept at bay.
Baby shampoo is preferred over your standard shampoo as it is less irritating to the eyes and unlikely to result in allergic reactions. However, excess baby shampoo may still irritate the eyes. Therefore, apply the baby shampoo onto your goggles and wash away excess shampoo 15 minutes before you swim.3.
Anti-Fog Spray If you are willing to spend some cash for your goggles, a 100% effective solution is purchasing an anti-fog spray. These anti-fog chemicals can help recoat your lenses, leaving your goggles fog free! A great brand that we will recommend getting is SWANS.
You only need a little amount at a time to coat your lenses. Therefore, one bottle can last you for a long while! A precaution to take note is to rinse your goggles under water after using the anti-fog spray. This is to avoid the chemicals from getting into your eyes when you use your gear. This alternative is definitely cheaper than replacing a whole pair of goggles, and it will prolong the lifespan of your anti-fog lenses! 4.
Toothpaste Recommended by scuba divers, another popular method to defog your goggles is to use toothpaste! Like the baby shampoo, a coat of toothpaste can prevent condensation from forming on the lens of your goggles. However, it is not advised to use abrasive toothpaste as that might cause scratches on your goggle lenses; and just using a small amount is enough.
Once again, remember to wash off the toothpaste from your goggles thoroughly, because no one likes a burning sensation in their eyes when swimming! 5. The Ultimate No-No: Touching Those Lenses with your Fingers One huge mistake that many swimmers make when handling their goggles – constantly wiping the lenses! The anti-fog layer in the lenses wears off eventually, but how fast it happens depends on how you treat your goggles.
The anti-fog coating will not last long if you constantly touch the inside of the lenses with your fingers. This is because the oil on your fingers can rub off the thin layer of anti-fog easily. Rinsing with cool water and leaving them to dry is the ideal way to clean your goggles and preserve the anti-fog layer in the lenses.
What can you use instead of anti-fog spray?
If you have rubbing alcohol and dish soap at home, you can start by making your own anti fog spray! Mix ¼ cup of water with ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol and a teaspoon of dish soap. Shake vigorously to mix and then spray on glasses as needed!
Is toothpaste anti-fog?
Don’t Use Toothpaste to Prevent Foggy Glasses A sudden change in temperature can cause glasses to fog up and is one of the most annoying aspects of wearing glasses in the winter. Applying an anti-fog wipe or spray can help; however, never apply household products like toothpaste or shaving cream to lenses. These internet “fixes” could actually scratch and damage lenses.
There are two dangers to using household items on lenses. First, certain products are abrasive and can cause scratches. Second, certain chemicals can actually strip any type of coating you’ve applied to lenses, rendering them useless. |
There are a number of anti-fog sprays and wipes on the market that are safe to use on lenses. Once applied, they create a water-repellent surface, which helps keep foggy glasses to a minimum. While helpful, these sprays and wipes are not a permanent solution, they will usually have to be used multiple times a day.
Another tip to help prevent foggy glasses is to ensure that frames properly fit. Glasses should never rest on your cheeks—if they do—it can contribute to foggy lenses by restricting air circulation. You always want to make sure that glasses sit above your cheeks, even when smiling. If you’re fighting with foggy glasses this winter, stop by your nearest Hakim Optical, we can see if your glasses are fitting properly and offer some custom solutions to help.
Did you know that every Hakim Optical location has a licensed optician in-store? These certified professionals are trained to help you find the best corrective eyewear solutions for your specific needs.
At Hakim Optical, we deliver best-in-class value on all of our products and are committed to providing our customers with fast and simple eyewear solutions.Connect with us on, and for eye health tips and to always stay up-to-date on our latest promotions.
: Don’t Use Toothpaste to Prevent Foggy Glasses
Does salt water ruin goggles?
Chlorine and Saltwater do Damage – Prolonged exposure to chlorine or salt water from the pool can damage your goggles over a period of time. When not rinsed out and left to dry on the surface of the goggles, these do damage to various parts of the goggles.
- When the lenses start to become damaged, it affects your visibility underwater and can lead to headaches or blurry vision due to eye strain.
- Chlorine and salt also affect silicone and rubber such as the strap and gaskets of the goggle.
- They turn stiff and brittle over time, resulting in the strap snapping, and gaskets losing its ability to mould to your face like they once did.
You will start to notice this when you feel that the water is leaking into your goggles. And the most troubling part is that it always happens without warning, at the most inconvenient times. In addition, oil and sunscreen from your face are also contributing factors for trapped dirt in your goggles if you do not thoroughly wash them.
What is a natural anti-fog?
How to Make Your Own Eyewear Anti-Fog Solution – Once you have mastered caring for and maintaining your eyewear properly, you can now look towards purchasing an anti-fog solution. According to research, soap molecules and alcohol from hand sanitizers can form a transparent, protective coating that prevents fogging.
If you are looking to save a few extra bucks, you can choose to make your own DIY solution using a few tried-and-tested methods that have worked for many people. However, to be completely safe, you should always check with your eyewear manufacturer’s instructions to see if you should avoid any specific substance.
These are some ways you can make your own eyewear anti-fog solution:
Rubbing alcohol: Mix ¼ cup of water with ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and add a drop of Dawn dish soap. Shake the bottle, spray the lenses with the solution, and clean with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar: Pour 1/3 cup of distilled water into a spray bottle and fill the rest of the bottle with vinegar. Spray the lenses with the solution and dry them with a microfiber cloth. This is an effective way to clean grime while providing a layer of anti-fog coating. Witch Hazel: Mix ½ cup distilled with ½ cup witch hazel, and add two drops of Dawn dish soap into a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the lenses and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. This is a great alternative if you don’t have alcohol on hand.
The information on this page was obtained through common use sources on the internet and is not validated or endorsed by ExFog. ExFog is not liable for any damages resulting in the use of the above content.
What prevents fogging?
Use anti-fog lens spray. Spritzing your lenses with anti-fog spray will keep them gloriously transparent while you’re wearing your mask. We recommend stashing a bottle or two in your bag so you’re always prepared.
Does shampoo work as anti-fog?
Anti-fog swimming goggles are specifically designed to minimise or prevent fogging on the inside of swim goggles lenses, ensuring clear vision while swimming. All Volare swim goggles are treated with special anti-fog coatings that are applied to the swim goggle lens, this fog free technology works to help inhibit the accumulation of condensation or fog, Volare is a market leader in long lasting anti-fog swim goggle technology.
Volare optical swim goggles are renowned as the best anti-fog swim goggles on the market, like you we believe no-fog swim goggles are a must. However, it’s also important to note that the effectiveness of anti-fog goggles can vary depending on factors such as water temperature, humidity, goggle age and obviously the care given to your swim goggles.
It’s important not to touch or rub the inside of your new goggles as this can remove the anti-fog coating from your lens. The key features and benefits of anti-fog swim goggles are: Anti-Fog Swim Goggle Lens Coating: Volare anti-fog swim goggles feature a thin coating applied to the inside surface of the optical swim goggle lens. This anti-fog coating helps to disperse moisture and prevent fog from forming, allowing for clear and uninterrupted vision during swimming.
- Long-Lasting Anti Fog Swim Goggles: All Volare swim goggles feature a high-quality anti-fog coating, that is applied to the inside lens of the swim goggle.
- This anti-fog coating is specifically designed to provide long-lasting fog free vision, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- However, over time and with use, like most things the effectiveness of the coating may diminish or slowly wear out depending on usage.
When fogging happens its time to use other anti-fog measures, like using an anti-fog spray, no more tears baby shampoo to stop fogging or depending on age it may be time to invest in new swimming goggles. Improved Swim Visibility: Anti-fog swim goggles enhance visibility, b y minimising or stopping fogging, allowing swimmers to focus on their strokes, surroundings, and other swimmers without the distraction of foggy lenses.
- This is particularly important in open water or competitive swimming settings.
- Enhanced Swimming Safety: Clear vision is crucial for safety while swimming, and anti-fog swim goggles help ensure that swimmers can always see clearly.
- Whether swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean, the ability to maintain clear visibility can help prevent accidents, collisions and save valuable time racing by allowing for clear sighting of swim buoys.
Convenience: Anti-fog swimming goggles eliminate the need to constantly remove and defog goggles during swimming sessions. Swimmers can enjoy uninterrupted swim sessions without having to stop and address foggy lenses. Versatility: Anti-fog goggles are available in various styles, designs, and lens types to suit different preferences and swimming environments.
Whether for recreational swimming, competitive swimming, doing your first triathlon or open water swimming, there are anti-fog goggles available to meet the needs of all swimmers. The Kirra anti-fog swim goggle is ideal for racing or for those looking for a low-profile socket swim goggle and offers optical lens quality and anti-fog lenses as standard.
The Noosa anti-fog swim goggle is ideal for open water swimmers or for those looking for a large goggle and field of vision. The Noosa swim goggle range offers optical lens quality and anti-fog lenses as standard. Looking After Anti-Fog Swim Goggles: Rinse your swim goggles with clean water after use and air dry, then store in a protective case to help prevent damage, scratches and maintain the anti-fog properties of the goggles.
- Over time anti fog coatings will slowly fade, making the anti-fog treatment less effective on your swim goggle.
- No matter the brand or swim goggle style, over time everything needs replacing.
- If swimming is something you really love a new set of anti-fog swim goggles, is a relatively low investment and clear visibility will certainly change your swimming world for the better.
We can’t stress enough to not rub or touch the inside of your swim goggle lens, this one point is the key to the anti-fog coatings longevity and the biggest cause of anti-fog coatings failing is simply swimmers wiping the coating off with clothes or fingers.
- While the internet and fellow swimmers are a great source of information, never ever use harsh or abrasive cleaning products on your swim goggles.
- Never use tooth paste on your polycarbonate swim goggle lens, while divers use to do this many years ago on glass dive goggle lenses, you will 100% ruin your softer polycarbonate swim goggle lenses.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of anti-fog goggles can vary depending on factors such as water temperature, humidity, the quality of the anti-fog coating and the care given to your swim goggles. Regular rinsing with clean water after use and proper storage can help maintain the anti-fog properties of swimming goggles.
- While anti-fog goggles can significantly reduce fogging, it’s possible that they may still fog up under certain extreme conditions.
- In such cases, additional measures like using anti-fog sprays, rinsing with water, or employing other anti-fog techniques can be used in conjunction with your treated anti-fog swim goggles to maintain and maximise clear vision throughout your swim.
Over time like all things, Anti-Fog coating with be less effective and the good news is you can restore clear vision with the below strategies. No More Tears Baby shampoo: Baby shampoo can be effective in reducing fogging, keep in mind that its anti-fog properties may not be as long-lasting as specialised anti-fog coatings or sprays.
It’s a method that works very well, however need to be done before every swim. Should fogging persist, you may want to explore alternative anti-fog treatments or consider purchasing new swim goggles with built-in anti-fog features. Swimmer and triathletes have used baby shampoo on swim goggles for years, it’s a simple and cost-effective method to prevent fogging.
Here’s why: Gentle Formula: Baby shampoo is known for its gentle formula, which is mild and safe for the delicate skin and eyes of infants. Using it on swim goggles minimizes the risk of irritation or discomfort that may be caused by harsher chemicals or cleaning agents.
Anti-Fog Properties: Baby shampoo contains surfactants that help reduce surface tension and prevent the build-up of water droplets on the goggles’ lenses. This property helps to minimise fogging and maintain clear vision during swimming. Residue Removal: Baby shampoo can effectively remove oils, dirt, and residue that accumulate on the lenses over time.
These substances can contribute to fogging and hinder visibility. By cleaning the goggles with baby shampoo, you can keep the lenses clean and free from obstructions. Cost-Effective Solution: Baby shampoo is readily available and affordable compared to specialised anti-fog sprays or cleaning solutions. When using baby shampoo on swim goggles, it’s important to follow these steps: Dilute: Mix a small amount of baby shampoo with water in a bowl or your hand. The exact ratio may vary, but a common guideline is about a teaspoon of baby shampoo in a cup of water.
Clean: Gently rub the diluted baby shampoo solution on the inside and outside of the goggles’ lenses. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to remove any residue, oils, or dirt. Rinse: Thoroughly rinse the goggles with clean water to remove any remaining shampoo or residue. Be sure to rinse them well to prevent any potential eye irritation.
Dry: Allow the swim goggles to air dry completely before using or storing them. Avoid using towels or other materials that may leave lint on the lenses. Anti-Fog Spray: Apply an anti-fog coating or spray specifically designed for swim goggles. These coatings create a thin layer on the inside of the lenses that prevents fog from forming.
Before each swim, ensure the coating is still intact and reapply if necessary. Make sure to thoroughly rinse your goggles to avoid eye damage. Spit and Rinse Method: Before wearing your goggles, spit or use your tongue on the inside of the lenses. Rinse the goggles with clean water to remove excess saliva.
This method may sound unappealing, but the enzymes in saliva can create a temporary anti-fog effect. Proper Goggle Fit: Ensure your swim goggles fit properly and create a seal around your eyes. A snug and watertight fit helps to prevent water from entering the goggles, reducing the chances of fogging.
Rinse with Water: Rinse your goggles with clean water before each swim. This removes any residue or chemicals that may contribute to fogging. Avoid touching the inside of the lenses as this can transfer oils from your fingers, which can promote fogging. Avoid Touching the Lenses: Minimise touching the inside of the lenses, as the oils from your fingers can transfer onto the lens surface and cause fogging.
If you do accidentally touch the inside of the lenses, rinse them with water to remove any oils. Keep Goggles Dry: Store your goggles in a cool and dry place when not in use. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or in a damp environment, as this can contribute to fogging.
Avoid Wiping the Inside of the Lenses: If your goggles do fog up during a swim, resist the urge to wipe the inside of the lenses with your fingers or a towel. This can further spread oils and make the fogging worse. Instead, lift the goggles slightly away from your face to allow fresh air to circulate and help clear the fog.
Goggle Defogger Solutions: Use commercially available swim goggle defogger or anti-fog solutions or drops. Apply a few drops to the inside of the lenses, spread the solution evenly, and rinse with water before wearing the goggles. Volare Anti-fog swim goggles are specifically designed to minimise or prevent fogging on the inside of your swim goggle lenses, ensuring clear vision while swimming.
How do you keep goggles from fogging while snorkeling?
WAYS TO PREVENTING OR FIX NEW SNORKEL MASK FOGGING – The reason why new masks fog up is the residual coating on the lens left behind by the manufacturing process. You will have to remove this coating to prevent fogging issues completely. There are two effective methods for doing so: Applying Toothpaste Toothpaste is a widely used defogging agent by many divers.
All you have to do is squirt a little bit on the inside lens and rub it in. It would be best to use toothpaste without abrasive particles. You should also leave the toothpaste on overnight for best results and apply it a few times if necessary. Heating Up The Lens Another traditional defogging method involves heating the inside lens with a lighter or a candle.
This will cause the material to blacken, which is totally normal. Allow the surface to cool for a few minutes, and then wipe off the blackened residue. You should probably apply the heat treatment a couple of times until the lens barely blackens.
How long do you leave toothpaste on goggles?
Burning the silicone – This second method should only be attempted by a professional who is experienced in the method. If done correctly, it can be highly effective, but if not done correctly there is a risk that you may damage your mask. Using a lighter, it’s possible to burn away the silicone.
It’s important to position the lighter so the tip of the flame is just below the lens (hold the mask horizontally to do this and position the lighter directly underneath). The tip of the flame needs to be kept moving around the lens to avoid the lens becoming too hot in one place. Extreme care needs to be taken that you do not burn or melt the silicone skirt at the edges of the lenses.
Don’t be surprised if the lenses darken during the process, it’s soot from the silicone burning off. After you have treated the inside and outside of both lenses, rinse your mask and the soot will wipe away. Let your mask dry and then store it back in the original plastic box it came in.
Why are my new goggles fogging up?
Why Do Goggles Fog Up? – Before diving in, it’s important to understand why goggles fog up in the first place. The science is fairly simple: When warm and humid moisture enters your goggles and comes into contact with the cold lens, the water vapor condenses into droplets and accumulates.
What material is anti-fog?
US6506446B2 – Anti-fog coating material and method of preparing an anti-fog article – Google Patents This is a division of application Ser. No.09/169,975, filed Oct.13, 1998, now abandoned. FIELD OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART The present invention relates to an anti-fog coating material capable of forming an insoluble coating film having a high surface hardness and a hydrophilicity and moisture absorptivity-imparting function onto substrates, such as optical lenses, spectacles and window panels for vehicles expected to show anti-fog property and anti-(moisture) condensation property, and ink jet printer recording films, and also to an anti-fog article provide with an anti-fog coating film formed by using such an anti-fog coating material.
A substrate, such as that of glass or a plastic, may become foggy when the surface temperature thereof is cooled to below a dew point of atmospheric air, and atmospheric moisture is attached to the surface in the form of fine droplets to cause random reflection of light incident to the substrate surface.
Accordingly, it may be possible to prevent the fog on the substrate by preventing such moisture droplet formation on the substrate surface. In such a fog-preventing method, for example, four measures of (A) adjustment of wettability, (B) provision of moisture absorptivity, (C) provision of water repellency and (D) moisture adjustment by heating, have been considered.
The measure (A) as by use of a surface active agent cannot provide a long lasting effect.The effect given by the measure (B) lasts for a longer period than that given by (A), but fog is liable to occur and the surface is liable to be dissolved when the moisture exceeds the moisture-absorptive capacity.The measure (C) provides the anti-fog property by causing water droplets to fall off the surface due to the water repellency of the surface, but cannot cope with fine water droplets.The measure (D) provides the anti-fog effect owing to moisture adjustment by heating, but the scope of application thereof is restricted by the necessity of an electric power supply.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a coating material for providing an anti-fog coating film that is hydrophillic, moisture-absorptive and insoluble and also has an excellent surface hardness.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an anti-fog article provided with an anti-fog coating film formed by using such an anti-fog coating material. According to the present invention, there is provided an anti-fog coating material or composition, comprising: a polyacrylic acid compound, polyvinyl alcohol and acetylacetone.
The coating material may further contain sodium silicate. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an anti-fog article, comprising: a substrate and a coating film formed on the substrate by application of a solution containing a polyacrylic acid compound, polyvinyl alcohol and acetylacetone.
An anti-fog coating film formed of the anti-fog coating material of the present invention is water-insoluble, and has a high surface hardness and excellent durability. Such properties may be attributable to an improved mutual solubility between the polyacrylic acid compound and the polyvinyl alcohol accomplished by the presence of acetylacetone therebetween.
More specifically, a polyacrylic acid compound and polyvinyl alcohol have poor mutual solubility therebetween but are both well dissolved together with acetylacetone to form a uniform coating film. The coating film is hard, excellent in durability and water-insoluble.
This is presumably because the improved mutual solubility between the polyacrylic acid compound and polyvinyl alcohol promotes mutual interaction of polymer chains of these compounds to provide an insoluble coating film, wherein the acetylacetone is retained presumably in a chemically bonded state with the polyacrylic acid compound and the polyvinyl alcohol.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Preferred examples of the polyacrylic acid compound may include: polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, and lower alkyl (C1-C4) esters, particularly methyl and ethyl esters, respectively, of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid.
- It is preferred that the alkyl esters of polyacrylic acid and polymethacrylic acid respectively have a saponification degree (i.e., mols of hydrolyzed ester groups×100/(mols of hydrolyzed ester groups+mols of non-hydrolyzed ester groups) of 10-30 mol.%.
- The polyacrylic acid compound may preferably have a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 50,000-350,000 in terms of polystyrene-equivalent molecular weight according to gel permeation chromatography (GPC).
The polyvinyl alcohol used in the present invention may preferably be in the form of a partially or incompletely saponified product of polyvinyl acetate that has a polymerization degree (Dp) of at least 1,000, is soluble in an organic solvent and has a saponification degree (i.e., mols of hydroxyl group×100/(mols of acetyl group+mols of hydroxyl group) of 65-85 mol.
- More preferably 75-82 mol.%.
- The polyvinyl alcohol may preferably be used in an amount of 100-1000 wt.
- Parts (as solid) per 100 wt.
- Parts (as solid) of the polyacrylic acid compound.
- Acetylacetone may be used in the coating material of the present invention before the application thereof in an amount of 3-50 wt.
parts per 100 wt. parts (as solid) of the total of the polyacrylic acid compound and the polyvinyl alcohol. The anti-fog coating material according to the present invention before the application thereof may preferably be in the form of a solution in an organic solvent, which may preferably be a water-miscible organic solvent, such as methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol.
- The organic solvent may further preferably be used in combination with water.
- The preferred ratio of the organic solvent to water may be different depending on the particular solvent used, e.g., 80-120 wt.
- Parts of methyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol, or 40-80 wt.
- Parts of isopropyl alcohol, respectively, per 100 wt.
parts of water. The anti-fog coating material according to the present invention may further preferably contain sodium silicate, which may preferably have an SiO 2 /Na 2 O mol ratio of 2.1-3.1 The sodium silicate may preferably be used in 0.5-10 wt. parts (as solid) per 100 wt.
Parts (as solid) of the total of the polyacrylic acid compound and the polyvinyl alcohol. The anti-fog coating material according to the present invention may be used to coat a substrate, examples of which may include: glass articles and plastic articles, such as, lenses, optical parallel plates, and mirrors, prisms.
The anti-fog article according to the present invention may for example be prepared in the following manner. The above-mentioned respective components of the anti-fog coating material are blended to form a clear coating liquid. Then, the coating liquid is applied onto at least one surface of a substrate as described above and dried under heating at a temperature of at least 80° C., preferably 120-200° C., to provide an anti-fog article of the present invention.
The above coating liquid application may be repeated several times, as desired, to provide an increased thickness of the coating film, with or without heating after each application. The heating may also be performed after several times of application. The coating film may preferably have a thickness of 0.01 μm-1.0 μm, e.g., for optical lenses, and 1.0 μm-10.0 μm, e.g., for window panels.
The coating film thickness may be adjusted appropriately by applying a thick layer of the coating liquid or by repeatedly applying the coating liquid in superposition. The thus-prepared anti-static article may have a surface provided with anti-fog property and anti-condensation property.
The resultant anti-fog coating film is insoluble in water and organic solvent and exhibits a high surface hardness. In a preferred embodiment of preparation of the anti-fog coating material according to the present invention, the polyacrylic acid compound and polyvinyl alcohol are dissolved in a solvent mixture of a lower alcohol, as an organic solvent, and water, and acetylacetone is added to form a uniform coating mixture liquid, which may be dried to provide a uniform film layer through uniform drying without exceeding mutual solubility-separation limit during the film formation step owing to the function of the acetylacetone.
In another preferred embodiment of preparation of the anti-fog coating material according to the present invention, the polyacrylic acid compound, polyvinyl alcohol and sodium silicate are blended and dissolved in a solvent mixture of a lower alcohol and water, followed by addition of acetylacetone to form a uniform coating mixture liquid, which may be dried while precipitating SiO 2 due to hydrolysis of the sodium silicate to provide a uniform film layer through uniform drying without exceeding mutual solubility-separation limit during the film formation step owing to the function of the acetylacetone.
TABLE 1 | ||
Polymethylmethacrylate 20 mol. %-saponified | 52.0 wt. parts | |
product (Mw = 15 × 10 4 ) | ||
(2.3 wt. % solution in water/methanol | ||
(=100/100 by weight) | ||
Polyvinyl alcohol 10 wt. %-aqueous solution | 47.1 wt. parts | |
(Dp = 2000, ca.82 mol. %-saponified | ||
product) | ||
Acetylacetone | 0.9 wt. part | |
Total | 100.0 wt. parts | |
/tables> A coating liquid was prepared according to the prescription shown in Table 1 above (with the respective components indicated in weight parts). More specifically, into 52.0 wt. parts of 2.3 wt. %-solution in methanol/water of 20 mol. %-saponified polymethyl methacrylate (prepared by dissolving the polymethyl methacrylate in methyl alcohol, followed by addition of sodium hydroxide aqueous solution in an amount sufficient for 20 mol. %-saponification and stirring for 30 min.), 10%-aqueous solution of polyvinyl alcohol (Dp (average polymerization degree)=2000, Dssp. (saponification degree)=ca.82 mol. %) was added, and the resultant mixture was further stirred for 10 min. at room temperature (25° C.), followed by addition of acetylacetone and 15 min. of stirring at room temperature, to prepare a coating liquid. The thus-prepared coating liquid was colorless and clear and applied onto a glass sheet of 40 mm×70 mm×1 mm(t) at a pulling-up speed of 30 mm/min. by using a dip coater, followed by 10 min. of drying under heating at 100° C., to provide a uniform, colorless and clear coating film having a thickness of 3.0 μm. The coated glass sheet was then stored for 5 min. in a refrigerator (at ca.0° C.) and then left standing in an environment of 25° C. and 81% relative humidity, whereby no fog occurred at all on the coated surfaces of the glass sheet. Further, one surface of the coated glass sheet was wiped 20 times with a lens-cleaning paper (“Dasper” (trade name), OZU Co., Ltd., Tokyo) soaked with water under a load of 200 g, whereby the coating film was not peeled off at all or damaged at all. Comparative Example 1 A coating liquid was prepared and applied onto a glass sheet in the same manner as in Example 1 except for omitting the addition of the acetylacetone. After the drying and heating, a somewhat turbid coating film was formed in a thickness of 2.8 μm. As a result of the same tests as in Example 1, no fog occurred on the coating film, but the coating film caused peeling-off after ca.5 times of the wiping. Example 2
TABLE 2 | ||
Methyl acrylate/ethyl acrylate/ | 50.0 wt. parts | |
methacrylic acid (40/40/2 by weight) | ||
copolymer ammonium salt (Mw = 12 × 10 4 ) | ||
(2.5 wt. % solution in water/methanol) | ||
Polyvinyl alcohol (Dp = 2000, | 49.0 wt. parts | |
Dsap = ca.82 mol. %) (10 wt. % | ||
aqueous solution) | ||
Acetylacetone | 1.0 wt. part | |
Total | 100.0 wt. parts | |
/tables> A coating liquid was prepared according to the prescription shown in Table 2 above and applied onto a glass sheet, followed by drying under heating, in the same manner as in Example 1, whereby a uniform, colorless and clear coating film was formed in a thickness of 3.3 μm. As a result of the tests in the same manner as in Example 1, the coating film caused no fog at all on the surface and caused no peeling or damage after the wiping. Example 3
Polymethyl acrylate 20 mol. %-saponified | 50.3 wt. parts | |
product (Mw = 15 × 10 4 ) (2.5 wt. %-solution | ||
in water/methanol) | ||
Polyvinyl alcohol (Dp = 2000, Dsap = | 45.7 wt. parts | |
ca.82 mol. %) (10 wt. %-aqueous | ||
solution) | ||
Sodium silicate (SiO 2 /Na 2 O = 3.1 | 3.1 wt. parts | |
(by mol)-aqueous solution | ||
Acetylacetone | 0.9 wt. part | |
Total | 100.0 wt. parts | |
/tables> A coating liquid was prepared according to the prescription shown in Table 3 above and applied onto a glass sheet, followed by 10 min. of drying under heating at 130° C., otherwise in the same manner as in Example 1, whereby a uniform, colorless and clear coating film was formed in a thickness of 3.0 μm. As a result of the tests in the same manner as in Example 1, the coating film caused no fog at all on the surface and caused no peeling or damage after 20 times of wiping with water-soaked lens-cleaning paper. : US6506446B2 – Anti-fog coating material and method of preparing an anti-fog article – Google Patents
/table>
/table>
What is the best homemade anti-fog for goggles?
Baby shampoo is a popular fix to prevent fogging in kids swim goggles – Shampoo and dish soaps are surfactants that will prevent fogging. We recommend using baby shampoo because it is less likely to irritate your eyes. Gently apply a drop or two of baby shampoo to the inside of goggle lenses, then carefully spread with a soft clean cloth.
How do you make anti-fog solution for swim goggles?
Swim Goggle Anti-Fog – Blog – Kiefer Aquatics All Categories Adolph Kiefer Aqua Therapy Beginner’s Tips Breast Cancer Awareness Center Mount Snorkel Drills Events Gear Advice Health & Wellness Kiefer News Learn To Swim Lifeguard Masters Swimming Motivation Nutrition Olympic Swimming Open Water Product Review Racing Lanes ROOT Safety Sweepstakes Swim Apparel Swim Fins Swim Gear Swim Goggles Swim Parenting Swim Safety Swim Teams Swim Technique Swim Tips Swim Workouts Swimmer Gifts Swimming Injuries Swimming News Swimming Nutrition Swimming Stories Training Triathlon Veterans Day Water Aerobics Wounded Warriors,, | May 12, 2014 Swimmers, tired of cloudy, steamy goggles? You’re in luck! Read on for advice on preventing swim goggles from fogging up- and learn to make your own swim goggle anti-fog. To understand how to prevent foggy goggles, it’s important to understand the science behind the annoying goggle clouding that prevents you from making the most of your time in the pool.
- The annoying fog that forms on your goggle lenses during your swim workout or race is actually condensation, tiny water droplets formed when water vapor changes from a gas into a liquid.
- Condensation is a phase transition of matter that occurs when water vapor contained in hot, humid air comes in contact with a cold surface.
The air temperature inside your swim goggles increases due to body heat; body temperature continues to climb due increased athletic exertion. Perspiration forms around your eyes, further raising goggle humidity. Colder water outside your swim goggles causes goggles lenses to cool.
- As water vapor comes in contact with your cooler swim goggle lenses, it reaches its saturation point, causing water droplets to form during a process known as deposition,
- Swift Swimmer Fact: Goggle condensation forms when water vapor meets a cool surface.
- Here are some essential tips for preventing foggy swim goggles.
High-quality lenses are pre-treated with anti-fog coating. Read product descriptions to make sure you purchase anti-fog swimming goggles! Your big fingers should be used to pull you through the water. Keep them away from the inside of your goggle lenses or you’ll erode and smudge the anti-fog coating, causing it to lose effectiveness prematurely.
• Spit: Don’t underestimate yourself. Spitting in your lenses, followed by a quick shake, will temporarily abate fogging. However, repeatedly stopping your swim to fill your goggles with spit gets old- and attracts odd glances. • Sloshing: Keep a little bit of water in each lens, allowing it to slosh across your goggle lenses as you swim. This is annoying, but will suffice in a pinch.
Tip: Don’t wear your swim goggles on your forehead. Your hot forehead (yes, you’re hot) and a lack of airflow can also cause condensation before you dive in. Pro Tip: Instead, push your goggle straps into the leg of your suit, swim cap, or neck of your wetsuit.
Swim goggle anti-fog is a surfactant that lowers water droplet surface tension, causing it to spread easily in a process known as “wetting”. Wetting prevents water from scattering into droplets. Voila- no fog. Don’t be a pool fool! Keeping anti-fog solution in your swim bag and taking :20 to treat your goggles is well worth your time, helping you see the clock, other swimmers, and the pool.
Here are two techniques for applying anti-fog:
• Quick Start:
• Squirt or spray anti-fog, coating the entire inside lens. • Rinse your goggles (a fast dip in the pool if you’re at swim practice) and give them a shake. • Get on with your swim.
• Overnight:
• Carefully squirt or spray anti-fog, coating the entire inside lens. • Give your goggles a quick rinse. • Position goggles with the insides of the lenses pointing upward and allow them to air dry. • Again – keep your paws off the insides of the lens!
There are plenty of DIY (Do It Yourself) swim goggle anti-fog treatments that swimmers can brew at home. Here are two to try- at your own risk! The easiest DIY solution is baby shampoo. Like most shampoos, it is a surfactant and will prevent fogging. Apply baby shampoo to the inside of goggle lenses by using a cloth to wipe and spread the shampoo. However, caution must be used:
• Scratch alert! Take care when wiping baby shampoo onto goggle lenses! Lenses scratch easily; be sure to remove any dirt or debris from the lens surface prior to wiping- and use a soft, clean cloth. • Pain Alert! Leaky goggles will cause shampooed water to enter your eyes- this hurts enough to stop your swim mid-stroke.
Stacey Kiefer’s anti-fog recipe leverages the strengths of store bought and DIY anti-fog solutions by combining off-the-shelf anti-fog with dishwashing soap. Stacey maintains that this combination creates a more resilient anti-fog coating with greater longevity. Ingredients:
• Anti-fog solution • Eco-friendly liquid dishwashing soap
Directions:
• Mix Kiefer or Speedo anti-fog with liquid dishwashing soap inside a spray bottle in a 4:1 ratio. • Spray a uniform coating of anti-fog over entire interior of both goggle lenses. • Give your goggles a quick rinse. • Shake remaining water from lenses. • Pain Warning! You’re ready to swim, but make sure your goggles don’t leak- or you’ll get soapy water in your eyes!
We’d love to hear from you. Please share your fogging prevention techniques- or greatest challenges to swimming. We’d love to help. Until then, check out our posts on swim goggle care and lap swimming etiquette. See you at the pool, Robin Spencer Kiefer : Swim Goggle Anti-Fog – Blog – Kiefer Aquatics
How do you make lenses fog free?
2. Wash with soapy water – Just before you don your specs, wash them with a mild detergent or liquid soap. If you have time, air dry them. If you need to put them on right away, gently pat the surface dry with a soft, low-lint cloth. Researchers have found that a very thin layer of soap molecules will remain on your glasses, forming a transparent coating that inhibits fog formation.