CR-39 Lenses in Aviation
A Material Born From Aviation
CR-39 (Columbia Resin #39) was developed in 1940 by the Columbia Resins project (now PPG Industries). It was the 39th formula of a thermosetting plastic screened during research.
Originally commissioned during World War II, the transparent material was used to create lightweight, reinforced fuel tanks for B-17 bombers.
Its exceptional optical clarity and lightweight properties later led the Armorlite Lens Company to pioneer the first CR-39 eyeglass lenses in 1947.
Today, CR-39 remains widely regarded for its natural optical clarity, lightweight comfort, and refined visual performance.
The VANDA Approach
At VANDA, our decision to use CR-39 lenses as standard is intentional.
As an aviation-founded eyewear company, we are drawn to the same principles that made the material trusted in early aviation applications - clarity, precision, and performance without unnecessary weight.
