A light diffuser is a material that spreads light evenly, reduces hot spots and glare, and softens shadows. Acrylic (PMMA) is commonly used due to its good optical clarity, moldability, and durability.
When used as a diffuser, an acrylic sheet works by:
Scattering the light passing through its surface or internal structure (via textures, frosted finishes, microprisms, etc.).
Blurring the direct view of the LED source, thus reducing glare.
Distributing light more uniformly over the surface.
Absorbing or reflecting very little of the light (high light transmission).
From Kunxin’s “Decorative Acrylic Sheet” page:
They explicitly list “Light Diffuser Sheet” and include varieties such as Acrylic diffuser sheet, Polycarbonate Diffuser, Anti-Glaring Diffuser Sheet, and Prismatic Diffuser Sheet as part of their Optical Plastic offerings. (KUNXIN)
Their decorative acrylic sheets are marketed with “superior light diffusion” as a desired property. (KUNXIN)
They mention uses in “LED Decorative Acrylic Sheet” and “enhancing their aesthetic appeal” in interior and exterior LED lighting contexts. (KUNXIN)
So, Kunxin is positioning some of its decorative acrylic materials specifically for LED diffusion.
Here are key specifications and features that determine how well an acrylic sheet will perform as a diffuser:
Feature | Importance / Effect | What to Seek |
---|---|---|
Diffuse vs Transparent (Opal / Frosted) | A purely clear sheet won’t scatter much light; frosted or opal surfaces scatter light more. | “Opal”, “Frosted”, “Milk”, or “Matte” finish options |
Thickness | Thicker sheets can provide more uniform diffusion but can reduce brightness slightly. | Balance — e.g. 2–5 mm is common in lighting fixtures |
Surface Texture / Microstructure | Patterns like prismatic, ribbed, or micro-domes enhance diffusion and direction control. | Prismatic diffusers, micro-embossed surfaces |
Transmission & Haze | High total light transmission and controlled haze (diffusion) desired | Typically >85–90% transmission with moderate haze |
UV / Outdoor Stability | For exterior or exposed installations, UV-resistance and weathering are critical | UV-stabilized acrylic, outdoor-grade sheets |
Customization / Fabrication | Ability to cut, bend, drill, or integrate with frames is crucial for lighting design | Good machining tolerance, support for custom sizes |
Kunxin’s product line offers decorative acrylic sheets in a wide variety of textures and finishes, which suggests they already support many of these features. (KUNXIN)
Some lighting applications where Kunxin’s acrylic sheets would excel as diffusers:
LED Panel Lights / Ceiling Fixtures — providing even illumination across a flat surface.
Backlit Signage / Advertising Displays — smoothing out the light behind printed or translucent panels.
Architectural Lighting Elements — for decorative light strips or feature lighting.
Furniture / Cabinet Lighting Inserts — to hide LED spots and soften light.
Outdoor Light Fixtures (if UV-stable grade used) — for canopy lights, exterior signage.
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