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    Are Polymer Plastics Isotropic?

    by:
    OPTICAL PLASTICS: Ask FOC Ask FOC
    Published: July 3, 2018
    , Last updated: September 10, 2025

    Question: Are polymer plastics isotropic?

    QUESTION: Are polymer plastics isotropic?

     

    ANSWER:

    Most polymer plastics are inherently isotropic (that is, that is they have no directionality in their optical properties). However, when formed in the injection molding process the polymer is melted, injected and cooled, which depending on the material can induce stress that shows up as birefringence in the finished molded part.

    Questions on OKP and polymer plastics can be directed to Kelly Barker at KBarker@focenter.com

     

    READ THE FULL BLOG ARTICLE HERE:  From Cracker Jack’s Magnifying Glass to Smart Phone

     

    ADDITIONAL CONTENT & RESOURCES:

     

     

      Answered by AskFOC Technical Team July 3, 2018

     

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    © 2018 Fiber Optic Center, Inc. Article Title: Are Polymer Plastics Isotropic? Author: FOC FAQ Published: July 3, 2018

    This article is an original publication of Fiber Optic Center, Inc. It is shared publicly for educational and reference purposes to support learning and professional development within the fiber optics industry.

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    About the Author
    FOC FAQ Fiber Optic Center has a team of technical experts and marketing strategists with decades of years in the field. This team contributes to the fiber, cable and specialty industries coverage through news, alerts, reports and general media information.
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    About Fiber Optic Center, Inc.
    Fiber Optic Center, Inc., (FOC), is an international leader in distributing fiber optic components, equipment and supplies and has been helping customers make the best cable assemblies in the world for over two decades. Several areas of specialization and expertise, in which they are the industry leader, make them the preferred choice for many of the world’s fiber professionals. In these key technology areas, FOC is "at least as technical as the manufacturer" about the products they sell. Striving to "make the business part easy," they offer outstanding and personal customer service, low or no minimum purchase order values, and from-stock delivery on industry-leading products and technology. FOC is the industry connection to the most innovative optical products, technologies and technical experts who integrate their manufacturing knowledge and vast experience into customers' worldwide operations. @FiberOpticCntr

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