Light scattering additives scatter the light passing through the plastic. This makes the products appear opaque or “milky”, resulting in a more even light distribution and reduced glare. These additives are ideal for lighting systems, displays, optical devices and applications such as privacy or sun protection with a frosted glass effect.
Usually, microscopic particles made of glass, ceramics or polymers are used as light-diffusing additives. The effect depends on the refractive index as well as the size and concentration of the particles. A greater difference in the refractive index, smaller particles and higher concentrations lead to stronger light scattering. ROWASOL has now developed an initial portfolio under the name ROWASOL LD for the plastic types PET, PC, PMMA and PS, which can be produced economically in customer-specific small quantities from 5 kg.
A major advantage - as is also known from the liquid colors - is the very good distribution during further processing of the concentrates, so that even small quantities in the range of 0.5% are sufficient to achieve an attractive milk glass effect. It is also very easy to add dyes or pigments to the dispersion, e.g. to achieve a slight tint or a strong coloration. The illustration opposite shows the many possibilities of ROWASOL LD.
In principle, all transparent and translucent plastics can be finished with suitable additive dispersions. For the best possible design, the product designers of the interested parties are networked directly with the experts at ROWASOL in order to develop the desired light scattering effect.