Aluminium oxide particles-containing organogels for cleaning of optical glass surfaces

Hypothesis: Some types of cleaning methods are not very effective and can actually increase damage to the optical parts being cleaned. As an alternative to these methods, we propose the use of gel-like substances to remove contaminants from optical surfaces. We have developed a method for cleaning optical glass surfaces that uses organogels, which are based on copolymers of methyl methacrylate and methacrylic acid. These organogels are loaded with polyethylene glycol, and aluminum oxide particles (Al2O3), which help to effectively remove contaminants without causing damage to the surface. Experiments: Al2O3 nanoparticles prepared by a Nano Spray Dryer were added to monomer stock solutions, and free-radical polymerization was conducted. Light crowns, heavy phosphate crowns and flints were used as research objects. Solutions of indene-coumarone resin in toluene and nitrocellulose enamel were used as contaminants. Polymer gels were characterized using resistance measurements, the gravimetric method in various solvents, and infrared spectroscopy. Optical microscopy and Atomic Force microscopy were used to observe changes on the glass surfaces. Findings: The advantages of this method include: effectiveness, simplicity, the use of small volumes of liquid solvents and aggressive media, and the ability to clean objects with any curvature or relief. The addition of Al2O3 particles as a reinforcing filler to the gel has made it easier to remove films from cleaned optical glass surfaces.