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Ultraviolet filters (UV-filters)
UV filter for targeted blocking or transmission of UV radiation
UV filters are designed to either block or transmit specific components of the ultraviolet (UV) light spectrum. UV blocking filters, also known as UV absorbers, block ultraviolet radiation below approximately 380 nm, while transmitting visible light (VIS) and infrared (IR) radiation components.
On the other hand, UV transmitters allow ultraviolet radiation to pass through while blocking visible light, which is reflected. These filters are designed to selectively transmit UV light while preventing visible light from passing through.
Specialized UV filters can be tailored to filter specific UV radiation ranges, enabling the selective blocking or transmission of particular bands, such as UV-A or UV-B radiation.
Dielectric UV-reflectors
UV-filters that reflect rather than transmit radiation are known as UV-reflectors. These reflectors typically consist of a glass or metal substrate coated with dielectric layers, which significantly enhance the reflection of UV radiation, while allowing thermally conductive visible (VIS) and infrared (IR) radiation to pass through.
Dielectric UV-reflectors are a type of interference filter, and we can customize their reflectivity to meet the specific requirements of your component.
Aluminum reflectors
Aluminum reflectors are a widely used type of UV reflector. These consist of a metal or glass substrate coated with aluminum to provide broadband reflection of UV, visible (VIS), and infrared (IR) radiation. Reflectors with aluminum coatings are essentially a type of metal mirror.
To prevent oxidation, aluminum reflectors are often protected with a passivation layer of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). This protective coating not only shields the reflector from environmental factors but also enhances its resistance to mechanical damage, such as scratches.
Aluminum reflectors can be applied to a variety of substrates, including metal surfaces like aluminum and stainless steel, as well as glass.
Advantages and applications UV filters
Advantages UV-filter
- Targeted blocking or transmission of UV possible
- Good possibilities for adjustment to specific UV ranges
- Depending on the filter, high reflectivity in the UV and simultaneous transmission of VIS and IR radiation or absorption of VIS/IR
Applications UV-filter
- Display production
- UV curing
- UV curing (e.g. in printing machines for curing printing inks)
- UV reflectors
- Tanning technology (sunbeds, facial tanners)
- Sun simulation systems (e.g. for testing photovoltaic modules)
- Material crack testing
- Disinfection / sterilization
- UV detectors (black light)
- Gas detection
FAQ: Five frequently asked questions about ultraviolet filters (UV filters)
UV filters are optical filters that specifically block or transmit ultraviolet radiation. There are two main types:
• UV blocking filters: Block UV radiation below approx. 380 nm and allow visible light (VIS) and IR radiation to pass through.
• UV transmitters: Allow UV radiation to pass through but reflect visible light.
Yes, special UV filters can be designed to specifically block or transmit UV-A or UV-B radiation. This allows for precise adaptation to the respective application.
UV reflectors are filters that reflect UV radiation instead of transmitting it. They consist of glass or metal substrates with dielectric coatings that provide high reflectivity in the UV range while transmitting VIS and IR radiation.
• Targeted blocking or transmission of UV radiation
• Adaptation to specific UV ranges
• High reflectivity in the UV range with simultaneous transmission of VIS and IR
• Protection against mechanical and environmental influences (e.g., through passivation layers in aluminum reflectors)
- Display production
- UV drying and UV curing (e.g., in printing machines)
- Tanning technology (sunbeds, facial tanners)
- Sun simulation systems (e.g., for photovoltaic testing)
- Material crack testing
- Disinfection and sterilization
- UV detectors (black light)
- Gas detection
