Graphene-based Artificial Iris for Active light management in a smart contact lensbroad
GAIA · Horizon Europe grant · 2024-03-01–2027-02-28
EC contribution
Total cost
Beneficiaries
About the data
Source: CORDIS (official EU open data), Horizon Europe. Framework HORIZON · call HORIZON-EIC-2023-TRANSITION-01 · scheme HORIZON-EIC · topic HORIZON-EIC-2023-TRANSITIONOPEN-01. CORDIS record →
Objective
Smart contact lenses have the potential to address multiple medical unmet needs, such as vision correction, diagnosis of eye disorders and monitoring of biomarkers. For instance, liquid crystal (LC) cells controlled by smart electronics and embedded inside contact lenses can autonomously control light intensity and visual acuity for patients suffering iris disorders. However, a couple of technological challenges remain unresolved before patient validation. The properties of LC cells are not optimal when using standard materials such as PEDOT:PSS and ITO. The former reduces the transmittance while the sheet resistance of the latter is greatly affected by thermoforming steps. In addition, LC ionic currents need to be reduced to favour power consumption. The GAIA project will address these limitations by introducing a graphene-based artificial iris. The unique combination of properties of graphene, i.e., mechanical robustness, high transmittance and lower ionic introduction, make it an ideal material for eye-related smart applications.We will combine the artificial iris management technology based on LC cells already developed by Azalea with the graphene microfabrication techniques developed by ICN2 to deliver medical optical systems with ultra-low power consumption, and unprecedented transparency and flexibility. The graphene artificial iris will autonomously change the size of the pupil to control the depth of field, visual acuity and improve the quality of life of millions of people. Our consortium brings together all the key expertise to achieve the project goals. Azalea is an SME with expertise in active light management, stretchable electronics and electronics integration in contact lenses, while ICN2 is a top academic research centre with unique knowledge in flexible graphene electrodes fabrication. Together, we will develop and validate the next generation of smart contact lenses to bring a revolutionary product to the market to solve unmet medical needs.
Beneficiaries (2)
| Organisation | Country | Role | EC contribution | SME |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AZALEA VISION | BE | coordinator | €1,748,500 | Yes |
| FUNDACIO INSTITUT CATALA DE NANOCIENCIA I NANOTECNOLOGIA | ES | participant | €749,875 |
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