Measurement of the index of refraction of the plastic Phenoxy PKFE.

The index of refraction, n of Phenoxy PKFE, a light yellow plastic produced by Union Carbide, is measured at lambda = 588 nm (n(D)), lambda = 656 nm (n(C)), and lambda = 486 nm (n(F)). These values are of interest because they must be known to determine the optical characteristics of a Phenoxy PKFE lens over the visible spectrum. Lenses made of Phenoxy PKFE have an important advantage over lenses made of other plastics. Phenoxy PKFE is chemically resistant to many epoxy glues commonly used to form airtight bonds in hermetically sealed chambers.