Advanced Light Diffusion Technology from Bayer MaterialScience LLC Hides LED Hot Spots

Product designers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can use this versatile technology in just about any lighting application — both indoors and outdoors, from overhead lighting in buildings to parking lot light posts. The breakthrough achieved by the Bayer MaterialScience Color Competence and Design Center in Newark, Ohio, creates the effect of softened LED light with minimal reflection. Until now, light from translucent white colors could be diffused, but never at this light transmission level or with as little reflectance. Using this technology, designers have nearly limitless freedom for their light diffuser packages, with the bonus of a broad palette of colors to customize the application.
 
"This is an exciting time to be a colorist. Because of our expertise in materials and color technology, we are able to offer product designers and OEMs a design solution specific to their needs, like the new light diffusion technology," said Terry Bush, senior chemist, Bayer MaterialScience LLC. "At the Color Competence and Design Center, we are able to recommend tailored applications, not just a generic, off-the-shelf solution."
  
Creating a high-quality diffuser package begins with selecting a Makrolon polycarbonate resin grade best suited to the particular application.
 
"The better the base resin, the better the overall performance of the diffuser package," explained Gerald DiBattista, market segment leader, IT, Electrical/Electronics Polycarbonates, Bayer MaterialScience LLC.
 
Material options for customers include:
• Makrolon LED2643: This ultra-high light transmittance LED lighting grade was designed to resist UV light, water exposure and immersion, and is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
• Makrolon FR7087: Is believed to be the first clear polycarbonate that passes UL 94 5VA flame rating at 3.0mm, and is ideal for lenses, covers and other electrical applications requiring clarity.
• Makrolon 6717: This is a highly flame retardant grade (V0 @ 2.0mm) designed for extruded applications such as light bars and light guides.
• Makrolon 3103: This is a high-viscosity, UV-stabilized polycarbonate that can be used in a number of applications, including automotive and consumer products.
  
"No matter what the final lighting application, we likely have a polycarbonate that will meet the application needs. From ultra-transparent to UV-stabilized flame-retardant, our diverse grades of Markrolon polycarbonate resin are generally best in class," said DiBattista. "Our goal is to provide OEMs with a combination of advanced technology and technical expertise that translates into innovations for their products. Our new light diffusion technology is an example of these technological advancements."
 
Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with nearly 15,100 employees at 30 sites around the world and 2008 sales of 9.7 billion euros. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries.
  
For more information about Bayer MaterialScience's Makrolon polycarbonate resin, call 1-800-662-2927, e-mail PCinfo@bayer.com or naftainfo@bayerbms.com or visit www.bayermaterialsciencenafta.com.
 
For more information about Carclo Technical Plastics, Inc., call 724-539-1833 or visit www.carclo-plc.com.