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Materials used in luminaires and illuminated signs and advertising boards
What is diffusion of light and why do we need different diffusers? How to select the correct LED diffusor
Diffusion refers to the scattering of light. A common requirement is that diffusion must be sufficiently effective to disguise LED light sources. In addition, the light must spread evenly over the surface.
The choice of diffuser is influenced by factors such as the thickness, translucency, shape and surface of the material and the machining methods used to produce it. In addition,a range of materials with different properties are available on the market to meet the varied requirements presented by different applications.
While standard diffusers perform well, they do not scatter light as evenly as premium diffusers and they also offer lower translucency. Standard diffusers offer a cost-efficient light diffusion solution.
Premium diffusers are made of materials designed and optimised for diffusing light, particularly in LED solutions. Thanks to their excellent properties related to light diffusion and translucency, these materials produce high-quality results at a lower luminous flux. Because of this, they offer an energy- and cost-efficient solution. Premium diffusers also include flame-retardant options.
Translucency refers to the material’s ability to permit light to pass through. It is measured in percentages.

Applications and recommended materials
LUMINAIRES |
The guide’s materials listed by suitable application |
ILLUMINATED ADVERTISING BOARDS AND SIGNS![]() |
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BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC SPACES ![]() |
PMMA XT |
MACHINES AND DEVICES![]() |
PMMA XT |
SHIPS AND BOATS![]() |
PMMA XT |
TRAINS AND TRAMS![]() |
Diffuser properties
Standard diffusers |
Premium diffusers |
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PMMA |
PMMA |
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PMMA XT | Opal, 30 - 45 - 70% translucency | PMMA LED | cold white, 60% translucency (1693N) |
Coloured | warm white, 65% translucency (1695N) | ||
PMMA GS | Opal, 30% translucency | Coloured | |
Coloured | PMMA GS Lumina | clear, illuminated edges | |
PC |
PC |
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PC Makrolon®GP 130 ja 150 | Opal, 30 - 50% translucency | Makrolon®DX | warm white, 72-76% translucency |
PETG |
cold white, 65-64% translucency | ||
Vivak UV white 2130 | 30% translucency | Makrolon®FR DX 139 | cold white, 53% translucency |
Makrolon®DX Sky |
clear, 90% translucency |