Finding the right polymeric film to meet a specific light management need is often a difficult commercial challenge. The wide range of inherent characteristics of light diffusing plastic films, varying test methods, and terminology differences can add to that material selection challenge. A good starting point is to understand that plastic films can be categorized into the 3 different types of light management film products: Light Transmission (high, low, or spectrum specific), Light Diffusing, and Light Reflecting. The pages below provide an overview of each material type, common design challenges, commercial applications, and the products offered by Tekra and our supply partners in this space.
Light Transmission Films
As mentioned above, plastic films and laminated products have light transmission ranges from virtually zero to approximately 88%. With the addition of anti-reflective coatings, it is possible to add 1.5% - 3% to the total transmission values, possibly more. Anti-reflective materials have applications in personal protective equipment and electronic displays. On the opposite extreme, even thin films can be made completely light blocking by laminating metal foils into the structure of the film. Applications for blocking materials are two sided displays and packaging of photo-sensitive materials.
Other considerations for the high light transmission segment are:
Does the film require secondary processing where micro-scratches can reduce transmission? If so, introduction of a removable mask is suggested.
Does the intended application expose the film to higher temperatures? If so, all testing of published values should be verified within the process and post processing because some substrates can change under these conditions.
If the application requires additional coatings, laminating, or the addition of any nano-structures, adhesion should be carefully evaluated
High Light Transmission Films
With so many possible needs to be considered, there are a wide range of high light transmission film possibilities. Here are just a few of the options that can be offered by Tekra with links to a product data sheet for each product:
- Is an excellent handling, high clarity film with both sides pre-treated to promote adhesion to most printing inks and industrial coatings.
- Is a high clarity Polyester Film pre-treated on one side for slip. It has excellent handling characteristics and low surface resistivity.
- Is a high clarity polyester film pre-treated on both sides for slip. The two smooth surfaces allow for easy top coating.
- Is a high clarity polyester film which is two side pre-treated for slip to combine good handling properties with high clarity and brilliance.
- Is a high clarity polyester film which is two side pre-treated for slip to combine good handling properties with high clarity and brilliance. This film has UL94 VTM-2 approval.
- Is a high clarity polyester film which is ore-treated on both sides to promote adhesion to many industrial coatings and inks. It is suitable for applications which require more die cuttable polyester film. This product has been registered with UL.
- Tekra has the ability to take clear polyester films and add custom anti-reflective coatings to meet the specific specifications of your application.
Light Diffusion Films
The most common light diffusion application is backlits, including backlit signage. Backlits are typically lit with LED or fluorescent light sources. These light sources can cause hot spots of focused light if the proper film type is not used. These hot spots detract from the visual appeal and readability of the image for the backlit sign. Light diffusing films are engineered to diffuse LED and fluorescent hot spots without sacrificing light transmission to improve display quality and reducing energy consumption within the light source.
There are many films that have light diffusing characteristics, however there are more properties to consider when selecting a film for backlits.
Is the material going to be printed?
If it is going to be printed, what method of printing will be used?
Does the film need to be durable and/or used in outdoor applications?
Will it be encased in the middle of a construction or does it need to be able to stand alone?
Does it need to be formable?
Does it need to have an adhesive?
The following is a wide selection of different products that qualify as Light Diffusing plastic films:
- Is a high performance coated film that offers very good chemical and abrasion resistance along with very good UV resistance. These performance characteristics make this film a good choice for outdoor applications.
- Is a 2 mil white vinyl film with pressure sensitive adhesive designed to adhere to rigid substrates. It was created for custom lighting effects for backlit applications. The film controls brightness and light distribution within light boxes without hotspots. It is available in different transmission levels: 30%, 50%, and 60%.
- This polycarbonate film is a one side matte, one side polished custom colored film. It offers high temperature resistance and excellent dimensional stability. It is designed to be used as a backlit film over light-emitting devices (LEDs) that is printed via Latex Inkjet printers. Both the polish and matte side can be printed via Latex inkjet offering two different backlit looks of the film. Available in 53", 57", and 60" wide rolls.
- This white translucent matte/gloss polycarbonate film is print receptive coated to allow solvent inkjet inks to adhere to the film while protecting the film from breaking down from the solvents. Typical applications include backlit signage.
- This white translucent gloss/gloss polyester film is print receptive coated to allow solvent inkjet inks to adhere to the film while protecting the film from breaking down from the solvents. Typical applications include backlit signage.
- This white translucent polystyrene is coated on both sides to be print compatible with HP Indigo presses. This film is designed to be backlit in small light boxes. The translucent film, evenly diffuses the light eliminating hot spots.
- Is a translucent matte film having medium surface gloss with light diffusing properties.
- Is a translucent, matte polyester which has a rougher surface (lower surface gloss) than Melinex® 377. This film also has some light diffusing properties.
Light Reflection Films
Light reflection films are designed to do just what the name says: to reflect or redirect light. In many light management applications such as LCD backlight units and light ballasts, light will escape or be absorbed by other materials in the construction which will diminish the brightness of the light source. By adding reflective films to these applications, upwards of 98.5% reflectivity over the full visible spectrum and all incident angles can be achieved depending on the type of light reflection film that is used. The results can minimize the amount of light loss and increase the illumination. In addition, most reflective films also help spread the light instead of focusing it like a mirror. By adding these films to the construction, it can allow a lower capacity light source to produce a very bright display.
Typical applications for light reflectingfilms can include:
Signs and light boxes
Channel letters
Ballasts
Reflectors in display boards
T4 fluorescent lighting
LCD backlight units
Luminaries
Insides of cabinetry
3M Light Management Films
Light reflection films can vary in thickness, reflectiveness, and color. Tekra can source a variety of these 3M™ light management films with different properties to meet your needs including:
With access to the latest films from top manufacturers augmented with Tekra's coating capabilities, Tekra can help you with all of your light management application challenges. Our technical team will work with you to select the right film for your specific application. Contact Tekra today at 1-800-448-3572 for your light management needs.