Billerica, Massachusetts USA - December 2006 - Bausch & Lomb has achieved FDA approval to treat their GP contact lenses using AST Products, Inc.'s PJ plasma surface treatment system. The PJ is a compact, full-featured bench top plasma surface modification system. Using Windows based PC control, the PJ is designed for both laboratory and production use. This new system is ideal for the surface treatment and cleaning/removing of organic contamination from various substrates, such as: metals, ceramics, glass, and silicon. The entire system fits conveniently in one cabinet.

GP Contact Lenses, also called "Gas Permeable" are a great alternative to soft contact lenses. GP contact lenses are made of a firmer material than today's soft contact lenses, which helps to provide the crispest and clearest vision of all contact lens materials.

 AST's Plasma Science Group has experience in various medical applications such as improving bonding/adhesion, attaining specific surface properties (hydrophilic, hydrophobic, biocompatible, low friction) and creating barrier coatings. We offer systems with various configurations, patented chamber design for process consistency and uniformity, as well as technical services and customizing capability. For more information contact us at (978) 667-4500 or visit our website at www.astpadvance.com.

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