The Birth of An Idea
The idea of an enzyme-based cleaning formula was first conceived in the 1980’s by Dr. L.H. Sampson. At the time, Dr. Sampson was working for Burroughs Corporation (Unisys) producing computer components.
The various components Dr. Sampson worked on required the use of sensitive optical equipment. Naturally, this equipment needed regular cleaning to achieve a consistent output. To clean the sensitive optical equipment, Dr. Sampson first used a conventional cleaner that contained toxic solvents and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
These harsh chemicals eliminated most dirt and dust, but over a relatively short period of time deteriorated the lens coating and left almost undetectable marks on the optics which were impossible to remove. These marks, when left unchecked, grew and multiplied as the conventional cleaner was used repeated times, eventually leading to the destruction of the lens coating entirely. This led Dr. Sampson to explore new methods of optical cleaning.
In the mid 1980’s Dr. Sampson began research to find an alternative to the inefficient cleaners he had been using in the past. Dr. Sampson’s research revealed that an atomic charge held by the surface material is what causes dirt and dust to adhere to it, so he narrowed his research to find a way to neutralize or even reverse this charge.
In 1989 Dr. Sampson finally found the answer to this problem in the form of an organic aqueous solution which he called Ultratech. The product was the first of its kind and the reactions to early test results and trials were positive. Utilizing many resources, Dr. Sampson gave samples to several scientific colleagues who marveled at this new cleaning solution.
Among these colleagues were several scientists at Sandia National Labs who were working on various space-flight projects. They expressed real interest in the usefulness of this formula for spaceflight. For the next several years Dr. Sampson, encouraged by the positive response to his product, continued his research to perfect Ultratech.
The Desert Test
In 1991 the multi-national forces of operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm were faced with an unrelenting enemy; the dust and sand of the Arabian Peninsula. Despite Ultratech still undergoing field testing, the US Military became aware of the product and requested its use in the war effort. During the Gulf War Ultratech was used to clean and protect the multi-coated optics and lasers aboard Apache attack helicopters and Abrams tanks (among others) from the harsh desert environment. The product’s performance was exceptional.
To the Stars and Beyond
Post Gulf War and through the 1990’s Dr. Sampson, with the able assistance of others, continued to work on the formula by trying to optimize its effectiveness. The next generation formula named Ultratech II, was distributed by Dr. Sampson to a select number of organizations, including the US Library of Congress and US House of Representatives.
In addition, Ultratech II made its first foray into space during a joint NASA and Russian Space Administration mission, fulfilling one of Dr. Sampson’s chief design motivations: use in the space program. The sterile formula’s lack of flammable components, toxic fumes and solvents made Ultratech II an ideal choice for the contained, oxygen-rich environment of spacecraft. The feedback from these organizations was excellent and it seemed that the product was nearing perfection.
In July 2000 Dr. Sampson unfortunately passed away leaving a legacy of significant achievements and inventions behind him. As well as formulating Ultratech II, Dr. Sampson designed components for the space program and was also involved in many major inventions including the holograms used universally on credit cards today, testing procedures for aircraft parts and also the composite material used in dental fillings.
Fearing the loss of arguably his greatest invention, Dr. Sampson’s business partners and assistants diligently continued his efforts and carried on his legacy into the 21 st century.
Origin Laboratories, LLC
Believing in the amazing potential of this unique cleanser, Origin Laboratories, LLC acquired Dr. Sampson’s company and its formula in 2005 and continues to produce the product in its state-of-the-art laboratory in New Mexico.
PUROSOL represents the culmination of one man’s vision and 20 years of research and development. The formula today is the leader in environmentally-friendly cleaning, and the basis of the core formula underlying the entire PUROSOL line of products, which includes cleaning solutions for optical, plasma, sport/marine and jewelry products.
The journey is not over. Origin Laboratories is committed to Dr. Sampson’s vision and dedication by continuing to experiment, develop and refine new formulations of PUROSOL, providing the indispensable optical cleaner for the 21st century.