The optical properties of materials mainly refer to the various properties that materials exhibit when absorbing, reflecting, and refracting light, as well as the phenomena such as interference and scattering of light caused by materials. Polymers are one of the most widely used material classes in the world today, and their optical properties are closely related to our perception of the quality and visual performance of polymer products. Determining and characterizing the optical properties of polymer materials can provide researchers with a wealth of information, including the material's gloss, transparency, haze, birefringence, yellowness index and refractive index. With specialized equipment and experienced personnel, Alfa Chemistry is qualified to perform tests to determine the optical properties of polymer materials and products.
We have the capability to measure the optical properties of polymer materials. Our test projects include, but are not limited to the following.
● Gloss
Gloss is an optical property that describes the degree to which a polymer surface reflects light in the specular direction. It is one of the important optical properties associated with polymer surface especially in industries such as automotive, packaging films, etc.
● Transparency
Transparency is the optical property of allowing light to pass through a material without scattering. The transparency of a polymer depends on the type and structure of the polymer and the type of additives, fillers, and colors used. Transparent polymer materials appear clear, with the overall appearance of one color, or any combination leading up to a brilliant spectrum of every color.
● Haze
Haze is an optical effect caused by the scattering of light within a transparent polymer that results in a cloudy or milky appearance. It is an important measurement characteristic when true color and visibility and the visual properties of polymer products are required.
● Birefringence
Optical birefringence is an inherent property of a material, which causes double refraction of a ray of light resulting in polarization of the light wave. Birefringence of polymer is often measured as difference between refractive indices for the two rays. Birefringence of polymers should be controlled for some photonic devices.
● Yellowness index
Yellowness index is an important factor to be tested in the polymer field. It is a quantification of the shade of yellow exhibited by a polymer. This test will provide important information about the quality of the polymer product and the extent to which it can withstand damaging conditions.
● Refractive index
Refractive index is the ratio of the velocity of light of a specified wavelength in air to its velocity in the examined substance. It is an important optical property of polymers that can be used for identification purposes or to predict other properties.
Our test standards mainly include ASTM D2457, ASTM D1003, ASTM D542 and ASTM E313.
We will test in accordance with the above standards, but we can also conduct the test according to the specific requirements of our customers.
