The impact of cellulose nanocrystals on the properties of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐based contact lenses

Abstract

AbstractContact lenses are widely used corrective devices for addressing vision impairments. In addition to their traditional role, these lenses are increasingly applied in personalized care, biosensing, and drug release, thus broadening their application as multifunctional devices. Nanoparticles are often used to introduce new functionalities to these materials. In this context, the role played by different nanoparticles requires attention to ensure that lens manufacture and patient comfort meet the desired criteria. This study investigates the properties of contact lenses prepared by incorporating cellulose nanocrystals into the poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) matrix. Using photopolymerization reactions, polyHEMA‐based lenses and nanocomposites containing freeze‐dried and never‐dried nanoparticles were obtained. Fundamental properties of these lenses were evaluated to verify whether the nanoparticles could have a negative effect on the materials. Subsequently, the potential impact of these nanoparticles on the adsorption of model amino acids was investigated. Our findings reveal that the presence of cellulose nanocrystals modifies on lens thickness, light transmittance, mechanical properties, refractive index (RI), and the uptake of amino acids by the contact lenses. This could potentially affect patient comfort and modify the uptake and release of pharmaceutical ingredients by the material. Additionally, it could impact how these materials interact with biomolecules present in the lacrimal fluid.