Lightwave Logic Inc (LWLG)

[Fruno]

NLM and LWLG are both working hard to improve the long-term stability of their materials. The big emphasis is on thermal stability. Chromophores are oriented in a linear manner during poling, but can move into a more random arrangement when exposed to high temperatures afterwards. This lowers the electo-optical efficiency (r33) of the material, so maintaining the poled condition is critical.

NLM's tech derives from the University of Washington, who submitted a patent application in Dec. 2024 titled "CROSSLINKABLE NONLINEAR-OPTICAL CHROMOPHORE SYSTEM". Cross-linking of the chromophore molecules is their approach to keeping their polymer properly poled.

LWLG just had another patent application made public titled "NONLINEAR OPTICAL CHROMOPHORES HAVING A DIAMONDOID GROUP ATTACHED HERETO, METHODS OF PREPARING THE SAME, AND USES THEREOF". If this looks familiar, it is. This is the sixth application with the same title, and 4 patents have already been granted. The first of the applications was submitted in June 2021. The goal is to reduce "molecular mobility over time". There are at least 4 other applications in process that use other chemical means to enhance stability. This indicates that LWLG has made considerable progress in this area.

LWLG's patented sealant protects from water and oxygen, and they are including antioxidants in the polymer. Packaging can protect materials from light. LWLG passed the Telcordia 85/85 test, which NLM hasn't, so they are ahead of the game. LWLG appears to be way ahead in scaling up production through internal efforts (ramping up production of Perkinamine and the BEOL process) and by working closely with 4 Stage 3 partners and with several foundries (NLM also works with Polariton and ETH Zurich, but at this point doesn't have access to "top" foundries). LWLG looks to be much closer to commercialization as of now. Ultimately, NLM may get there, too. Maybe competition will be good for both.