UV-resistant polycarbonate is a specially formulated material designed to withstand ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. Unlike standard plastics that can degrade under UV exposure, these polymers resist UV degradation, maintaining their physical appearance and mechanical properties over time. Applications in LED Lighting One of the primary applications for UV-resistant polycarbonate is in outdoor signs and lighting systems. These environments require materials that can endure prolonged exposure to sunlight without significant deterioration. Polycarbonate’s durability makes it an excellent choice for such demanding applications. In the realm of LED lighting, special grades of polycarbonate are designed to diffuse light from light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These LED-diffusing grades provide uniform light distribution, enhancing the efficiency and aesthetic appeal of lighting systems. Advantages of Polycarbonate Polycarbonate offers several advantages over traditional materials like glass. It provides greater impact resistance, which is crucial for outdoor and industrial applications where lighting fixtures may be subject to physical stresses. Additionally, polycarbonate can withstand significant temperature changes, ensuring reliable performance in various environmental conditions. Another significant benefit of polycarbonate is its high light transmittance. Clear polycarbonate can transmit up to 90% of natural light, which is comparable to the 92% light transmittance of clear float glass. This high level of transparency ensures that lighting fixtures can deliver bright and clear illumination. Polycarbonate materials are also easier to die-cast, cut, and shape compared to glass. This flexibility allows for more complex and varied designs in LED lighting fixtures, making it possible to create innovative lighting solutions that meet specific requirements. IK Rating and Durability The IK rating is a measure of the impact resistance of a material. Polycarbonate lenses for LED lighting often achieve IK ratings of IK10 or higher, indicating extreme durability. This high impact resistance ensures that lighting fixtures can withstand harsh environments, such as industrial sites or outdoor locations prone to vandalism or severe weather conditions. Example of UV-Resistant Polycarbonate in Use An example of a product that utilizes UV-resistant polycarbonate is the GRINSAFE Barrel™ GELT series tubular lighting. These lighting fixtures are made with UV-resistant polycarbonate, ensuring long-lasting durability even under intense sunlight exposure. With an IK10 rating, they offer extreme durability, and their high light transmittance of 90% ensures effective and efficient illumination.
