Optical Characterization of Polymer Films

In the production and processing of polymer films, precise optical characterization and quality control are key success factors. Whether packaging materials, technical films, laminating films, flexible substrates for solar cells, displays, touch panels, printed circuit boards or optical components, the optical behavior of materials determines efficiency, functionality and quality in every case. The focus is not only on production monitoring, but especially on the precise determination of dispersion curves of polymer films, meaning the refractive indices across different wavelengths. These provide insight into the optical dispersion behavior of the materials and are essential for reliable optical predictions in later applications, for example in optical devices, displays or bonding processes.

The SCHMIDT + HAENSCH ATR L multi wavelength refractometer offers a reliable, fast and highly precise solution for determining the refractive indices of your film materials, an essential parameter for evaluating optical suitability.

Determination of Dispersion Curves and Applications

A special field of application is optical lamination, for example the bonding of two glass substrates using PSA (pressure sensitive adhesive) or OCA (optically clear adhesive) adhesive films. Here, our ATR L provides reliable data on dispersion behavior, even for complex adhesive layers such as those used in displays, vehicle glazing or optical bonding applications. Applications such as window stickers, for example environmental badges or toll stickers, can also be evaluated optically.

Typical film materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) can be analyzed just as reliably as more advanced materials, including TCA (tri cellulose acetate), PVB (polyvinyl butyral) as well as cured pressure sensitive adhesives based on UV, PU, acrylate, silicone or epoxy systems. Even latex materials, as used in medical gloves, can be measured with the ATR L refractometer.

Since the physical properties and surface characteristics of polymer films have a significant influence on measurement accuracy, we offer suitable caps and accessories. Whether flexible, rigid, smooth or structured films, our dedicated solid sample accessories ensure optimal contact between sample and measuring prism at all times. For particularly hard and dimensionally stable films where direct optical contact cannot be sufficiently achieved, we recommend the use of a suitable contact liquid, for example diiodomethane.

Your benefits at a glance:

• Precise measurement of refractive index across multiple wavelengths
• Broad material range, from standard polymers to pressure sensitive adhesives
• Customized accessory solutions for all types of films
• Reliable data basis for quality control and product development

Rely on our experience and expertise in optical measurement technology, with the SCHMIDT + HAENSCH ATR L you ensure consistently high quality of your polymer films while gaining valuable insights into their optical dispersion behavior and material properties.

Upon request, we also perform customer measurements in our application laboratory, fast, precise and tailored to your specific requirements.