Optical Film
Key data in focus
Light transmittance, refractive behavior, scattering effect, filter properties, polarization, and durability
ISO 9001
Made in Austria
Special solution
What are optical films unique makes
Optical properties are not solely determined by the base material. What is crucial is the interplay of Polymer, film structure, layer thickness, surface structure and processing. Depending on the application, a film can transmit light in the most unchanged way possible or can specifically alter its effect.
Light transmittance and refraction
Optical films determine how much light passes through a component and how it spreads out. Transparent PET and PC films can allow for clear visibility, while special surfaces or multilayer structures can specifically influence the light effect.
When transitioning between different materials, light is refracted. This effect can be used for optical functions – for example, to direct light in a specific direction, reduce reflections, or better utilize the light yield of a system. Therefore, the appropriate film is selected not only based on its transparency, but also on its function within the overall optical design.
Light control and scattering
Not every application requires the most direct light transmission. In luminaires, displays or backlit areas, it may be beneficial to distribute light evenly and avoid disruptive hotspots.
Optical films with suitable microstructures, surface patterns, or coordinated layers can deflect or scatter light. This allows light sources to be used more homogeneously and surfaces to be illuminated more uniformly. The scattering is designed in such a way that the desired light distribution is achieved without unnecessarily impairing the optical function.
Filtering effect
Optical films can selectively attenuate, transmit, or reflect certain wavelengths or radiation regions. Depending on their design, for example, color filters, UV-reducing solutions, or films for specific spectral requirements are possible.
The filtering effect is always considered in relation to the application. It is crucial to determine which light components are needed, which radiation should be reduced, and how the film interacts with other components such as displays, sensors, lights, or covers.
Polarization
Polarization describes the orientation of light waves in a specific oscillation plane. In optical systems, it can be used to reduce reflections, influence contrast, or selectively select light.
PET and PC can be used as carrier or functional films in optical assemblies. The polarizing effect is created by oriented polymer structures, special coatings, or combined layer systems, depending on the design. It is important that the film, the polarization direction, and the other components are precisely matched to one another.
Optical clarity and surface quality
In optical applications, every detail counts. Imprints, flow lines, waviness, scratches, or uneven surfaces can affect the light effect and the perceived quality.
The appropriate selection of materials and controlled film production create the basis for uniform, high-quality surfaces. Depending on the application, additional scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, matte or adhesive coatings can be used.
Durability
Optical films must not only perform their function in their original condition. Temperature, humidity, UV radiation, cleaning agents, mechanical stress, and their interaction with other materials all have an effect on the film structure.
PET often excels in terms of good dimensional stability and a reliable base for transparent, printed or coated film solutions. PC offers high impact strength and is particularly suitable where robust optical components are required. For increased requirements regarding UV, scratch or chemical resistance, suitable types and additional coatings can be considered.
Which optical film Does it suit you?
Not every optical application requires the same film. We think about the light path, the construction space, and the subsequent use – and together find the solution that meaningfully combines optical function and technical durability.
PET – Polyethylene terephthalate
PET films are a proven base for transparent, durable, and versatile optical solutions that can be further processed. They are suitable for applications where clarity, dimensional stability, printability, or reliable coating are required.
Depending on the design, PET can be used as a transparent covering film, carrier film, insulation film, or as part of a multi-layer structure. Suitable coatings and finishes can be integrated to meet more demanding surface requirements.
- good transparency and uniform optical properties
- good dimensional stability in the foil construction
- suitable for printing, coating and laminating
- Versatile for use as a carrier or functional film
- economic solution for many optical applications
PC – Polycarbonate
PC films combine optical clarity with high impact resistance. They are interesting for applications where a robust film is required while maintaining high visibility or light transmission.
PC can particularly leverage its strengths where components are exposed to shocks, vibrations, or repeated mechanical stress. Depending on the environment, UV stabilization, scratch protection, or additional surface treatments are incorporated into the solution.
- High impact resistance and robust functionality
- Good optical clarity depending on type and design
- suitable for demanding covers and operating surfaces
- Good basis for structured, coated or printed films
- applicable when mechanical strength and aesthetics must be combined
Special solutions
If standard films are not enough, we keep thinking. Together, we develop solutions that are tailored exactly to your optical and technical requirements – from the material selection to the pre-assembled solution.
The appropriate optical film is not created in isolation. It must work in harmony with the housing, light source, sensor technology, adhesive, coating and assembly. Therefore, we view the application as a system and examine which solution works reliably throughout the entire process.
- customized foil constructions for defined light functions
- Combination of transparent, scattering and filtering effect
- printed, coated, laminated or textured films
- Roll-formed products, cut-to-size and pre-assembled solutions
- Solutions based on PET, PC or tailored multi-layer systems
- Consulting on the processing, connection and integration into your component
Where are optical films used their strengths play out
Lighting and backlight
Scrub foil, light-conducting foil and structured foil for uniform illumination of surfaces, displays and lights.
Display and control technology
Transparent protective films, optical covers, printed operating films and layer structures for visible and functional operating elements.
Sensors and optical systems
Filtering, transparent or polarizing films for sensor covers, optical measurement systems and components with defined light transmission.
Vehicle and mobility technology
Robust film solutions for displays, lights, control surfaces and optical components with increased requirements for durability and quality.
Equipment and electrical engineering
Transparent covers, light windows, insulation films and optical functional elements for devices, housings and technical systems.
Printing, labeling and design
printable carrier and cover films for backlit symbols, scales, displays and visible surfaces with a functional design.
Why Filzwieser for optical films?
Optical films do not work solely through transparency. Light transmittance, scattering, refraction, coating and durability must all be compatible. Even small changes in material, layer thickness or surface structure can affect the overall system's performance.
We assist you in selecting the appropriate film and go beyond the material. From the initial idea to the serial production, we consider processing, film construction, further processing, and integration into your component. This leads to solutions that not only look appealing but also function reliably in daily use.
What we are distinguishes
- Technical advice on PET, PC and multilayer films
- Understanding of light path, surface and system integration
- Support in material selection, assembly and processing
- customized solutions from roll goods to cut-to-size
- Thinking in terms of possibilities instead of standard answers
- short distances and direct communication with the expert
Your plastic solutions provider doesn’t just think in terms of individual films; we think in terms of systems, cycles, and long-term sustainable solutions – with reliability, trust and a WE before me.
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Frequently asked questions
What is particularly important when choosing an optical film?
What matters are the desired light transmission, the optical design, the required scattering or filtering effect, and the environmental conditions. In addition, temperature, humidity, UV radiation, mechanical stress, coating, bonding, and further processing must be taken into account. The film is therefore always selected to suit the specific application.
What is the difference between a transparent and a scattering film?
A transparent film allows light to pass through as straight and clear as possible. A scattering film changes the way the light spreads and distributes it more evenly in different directions. This can, for example, make uneven light sources appear more homogeneous. Which configuration is appropriate depends on the desired lighting effect and the structure of the system.
Can PET and PC films be printed or coated?
Yes, suitable PET and PC films can be printed, coated or laminated with other materials depending on the type and surface treatment. In this case, adhesion, temperature resistance, surface energy and subsequent processing must all be compatible. We will jointly examine which film structure is suitable for your application.
Is PET or PC better suited for optical applications?
That depends on the function. PET is often interesting when dimensional stability, transparency, printability and economical processing are required. PC offers advantages when high impact strength and robust functionality are required. However, the decision is not based solely on the material’s basic properties, but also on the complete optical and technical design.
How is a defined filtering effect achieved?
The filtering effect can be produced by the base material, applied dyes, coatings, or additional layers. Depending on the design, certain portions of the light can be attenuated, transmitted, or reflected. Which solution is suitable depends on the desired spectral range and the function of the film in the overall system.