IRVINE, Calif.—SDC Technologies (SDC), a developer and manufacturer of high-performance specialty coatings, has entered into a strategic alliance with James Robinson Speciality Ingredients (JRSI) that includes the purchase and exclusive licensing of their intellectual property and comprehensive patent portfolio of high-performance photochromic dyes. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, JRSI develops specialty ingredients and formulas to manufacture the premium photochromic dyes that change color when exposed to ultraviolet light. These compounds are primarily used for eyewear applications such as ophthalmic lenses, visors, face shields and goggles. According to SDC, this alliance enhances and strengthens the company’s product offerings in the photochromic market.

“We are delighted to have access to the entire patent portfolio of James Robinson Speciality Ingredients's photochromic dyes, the innovative leader in their field,” said Richard Chang, president and CEO of SDC Technologies. “This expands our commitment as a total vision care solution provider to advance the ophthalmic industry with groundbreaking, complementary technologies, particularly in the photochromic market.”

Chang added that with this alliance, the company’s photochromic system now includes CrystalChrome photochromic coatings and primers available in dip, flow and spin applications, combined with the company’s subsidiary Coburn Technologies, a developer of spin coating photochromic equipment. In addition, "JRSI’s vision of developing sustainable products aligns with our environmental policies,” Chang said. 

Sanketh Varalwar, CEO of JRSI, noted that SDC has been a long-standing customer of JRSI and that this partnership will grow this relationship. 

“This is a vital and beneficial agreement for our company as well,” said Varalwar. “JRSI will continue to manufacture, develop and sell next-generation photochromic dyes with exclusivity from SDC. It will be business as usual for our existing and future customers without interruption to our business continuity. This collaboration will accelerate and enhance product advancements in photochromics.”