an X-Rite Company

G U I D E
T E C HA Guide toReflectance Coatingsand Materials

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSTABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................... 3
Section 1: Diffuse Reflectance Coatings ............................................................................................................. 4-8
1.1 Spectraflect Reflectance Coating ............................................................................................. 4
1.2 Duraflect Reflectance Coating ................................................................................................ 5
1.3 Duraflect-II Reflectance Coating ............................................................................................ 5
1.4 Infragold NIR-MIR Reflectance Coating ............................................................................... 5
1.5 Infragold-LF MIR-FIR Reflectance Coating ........................................................................... 5
1.6 Reflectance Data of Labsphere Reflectance Coatings .............................................................. 6-8
Section 2: Spectralon Reflectance Material ......................................................................................................... 9-23
2.1 Reflectance Data of Optical, Laser and Space Grade
Spectralon Reflectance Material .............................................................................................. 10
2.2 Physical, Thermo-Optical Properties of Spectralon ................................................................ 11
2.3 Reflectance Properties of Spectralon ....................................................................................... 11
2.4 Reflectance Properties of Thin Sections of Spectralon ............................................................ 12
2.5 Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) ...................................................... 13-14
2.6 Variable Angle Reflectance Studies ......................................................................................... 15
2.7 Environmental Testing of Spectralon Material ....................................................................... 16
2.8 Spectralon Gray Scale Material ............................................................................................... 17
2.9 High Reflectance Gray Scale Material ..................................................................................... 17
2.10 Spectralon Color Materials ................................................................................................... 18
2.11 Spectralon Color Pastel Materials ......................................................................................... 19
2.12 Spectralon Fluorescence Materials ........................................................................................ 20-22
2.13 Spectralon UV-VIS-NIR Diffuser Material .......................................................................... 23
List of Illustrations ............................................................................................................................................. 24
General References ............................................................................................................................................. 252

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSINTRODUCTION
Over the past 20 years, Labsphere has been involved with ongoing research to improve the state of the art in diffuse reflectance coatingsand materials. Our dedicated Reflectance Research Laboratory is equipped with over 25 of the major spectrometers and spectrophotometers available today. This enables us to continue research for the improvement of current reflectance coatings and materials, as well
as develop new materials. Our pioneering achievements in reflectance material research have produced a selection of coatings andmaterials that are accepted as industry standards. Our applications base is perhaps the largest in the industry, as we work closely withour customers to meet and exceed their optical and reflectance needs.
While many readers of this technical guide will have started their careers in optics dealing with traditional diffuse coatings and materials
such as Opal Glass, Eastman 6080, or GE Integrating Sphere Paint™, this guide will serve as a refresher course in the new materials
available to spectroscopists, optical engineers and designers. For the newcomer, we hope this guide serves to aid them in selecting theproper reflectance coating and material for their application, by both outlining the physical, spectral and environmental properties, aswell as presenting the limitations that are inherent in any reflectance coating or material.
This guide should be considered a "work-in-progress", as we continually work toward improving and developing innovative, newreflectance products.
We hope you will find the information presented useful, and as always, we appreciate your comments and suggestions.

3

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSSECTION 1. DIFFUSE REFLECTANCE COATINGS
For integrating spheres and many other applications that require either diffuse illumination or collection, reflectance and scattering properties are of utmost importance. An ideal coating is non-specular (to decrease geometrical effects), durable, high inreflectance and spectrally flat over a wide wavelength range to give a flat spectral response in input or output.
For some prototyping applications, a white house paint may be sufficient. Most commercial white paints, however, are notparticularly white, nor particularly stable. They typically have an integrated reflectance in the 85 - 88% range over the visible
region of the spectrum and drop off sharply in the blue end due to the use of titanium dioxide as a pigment. Even a flat (matte)
white paint has a significant specular component that may cause problems. If low throughput is acceptable, a sandblasted
aluminum surface may suffice; but with a mean reflectance of around 55% the throughput will be extremely low and may not be
indicative of the performance of a component or system with a high-reflectance diffuse coating. For applications in the infrared, asandblasted metallic surface may suffice, however the formation of oxide coatings due to atmospheric exposure may change thecharacter of the material over time.
To design or prototype a component or integrating sphere system, the best possible coatings should be used. To that end,
Labsphere has developed five standard coatings that can be applied to many substrates that give a flat spectral response over a wide
wavelength range, are highly diffuse and highly reflective, and are with a single exception, quite durable for optical coatings.
These coatings, Spectraflect, Duraflect, Duraflect II, Infragold and Infragold-LF are described in the following section.

1.1 Spectraflect Reflectance Coating
Spectraflect is a specially formulated barium sulfate coating which produces a nearly perfect diffuse reflectance surface.
Spectraflect is generally used as a reflectance coating in the UV-VIS-NIR region and is most effective over the wavelength range
from 300 to 2400 nm. The range can be stretched to 185 nm before binder absorbtion peaks begin to appear. The reflectance ofSpectraflect, as with all reflectance coatings, is dependent on the thickness of the coating. At thicknesses above 0.5 mm(0.020 inches), the coating is opaque with reflectance of >99% over the wavelength range from 400 to 1100 nm. Spectraflect isthermally stable to approximately 100° C. Above that temperature, it slowly decreases in reflectance, especially in the
250 to 450 nm range. The coating yellows rapidly at temperatures above 160° C, and outgasses slowly in high vacuum due toresidual water entrapped in the binder. Spectraflect has been tested for laser damage threshold using a Q-switched YAG laser at
532 nm, the damage threshold is 1.7 J/cm2.
Spectraflect is an inexpensive, safe, non-toxic, high reflectance coating that is useful over a fairly wide wavelength range. The material
is highly lambertian in character. Spectraflect is limited by the fact that the binder is water soluble, thus the coating is not usable invery high humidity applications. For applications where this consideration must be taken into account, Labsphere Duraflect coatings
are recommended.
Spectraflect is applied by spraying the coating onto a specially prepared surface. Surface preparation generally consists of degreasing
followed by sandblasting to roughen the surface. Spectraflect coating can be applied to virtually any substrate, and is an ideal reflectancecoating for items such as optical components, integrating spheres, lamp housings and spectral diffuser panels.
The reflectance data for Spectraflect reflectance coating is presented in Figure 1 on page 41.

4

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
1.2 Duraflect Reflectance Coating
Duraflect is a proprietary white reflectance coating for use where hostile environments, weathering and wear may affect a
coating, yet high lambertian reflectance is required. Duraflect is generally used in applications in the visible to the very nearIR, approximately 350 to 1200 nm. It is stable to approximately 80° C, with slight outgassing at high vacuum. Duraflect iswater resistant and durable and can be used in high humidity conditions. The coating typically has a reflectance value of>95% over the wavelength range from 350 to 1200 nm. Duraflect is not recommended for use in the UV wavelength range.
Duraflect is applied by spraying the coating onto a specially prepared surface. Surface preparation generally consists ofdegreasing followed by sandblasting to roughen the surface. For best results, Duraflect should be applied to metal or glass
substrates. Pre-testing is recommended when applied to plastic substrates. Duraflect samples left outside in New Hampshire
environment showed loss of <0.5% reflectance even after multiple washings to remove dirt. Duraflect has been used at low
temperatures to coat integrating cylinders used to measure snow pack and is a common coating for reflectometers used inindustrial on-line processes.
The reflectance data for Duraflect reflectance coating is presented in Figure 2 on Page 41.

1.3 Duraflect-II Diffuse White Coating
Duraflect-II is a specially formulated diffuse white reflectance coating for use in high-humidity environments. This coating is highly
lambertian and exhibits excellent reflectance over the wavelength region from 300 to 1200 nm. Duraflect-II is a non-noxious, lowvolatile organic compound that exhibits superior optical properties and exceptional durability. The coating is ideal for both outdoor andlaboratory applications that require high diffuse reflectance. The coating can be applied to most substrates including plastics andcomposites. It is applied by spraying or painting onto surfaces.
The reflectance data for Duraflect-II reflectance coating is presented in Figure 3 on Page 41.

1.4 Infragold NIR-MIR Reflectance Coating
Infragold NIR-MIR reflectance coating is an electrochemically plated, diffuse, gold-metallic coating which exhibits excellent
reflectance properties over the wavelength range from 0.7 to 20 µm. Infragold has excellent vacuum stability, with no outgassing
reported. Laser damage threshold is approximately 19.3 J/cm 2 @ 10.6 µm using CO2 laser. This is considered above average for aplated surface. The threshold will increase if the material is cooled on exposure to laser, as in water-cooled integrating spheres ortargets.
The typical reflectance of Infragold is >94% above 1000 nm and data is traceable to the National Institute of Standards andTechnology (NIST). Infragold can be applied to metal parts, generally aluminum, nickel or steel, although it has been appliedwith success to copper and tungsten. It is generally used for reflectance integrating spheres and accessories for NIR to MIR
applications and is suitable for many space applications.
The reflectance data for Infragold NIR-MIR reflectance coating is presented in Figure 4 on page 42.

1.5 Infragold-LF MIR-FIR Reflectance Coating
Infragold-LF MIR-FIR reflectance coating is an electrochemically plated, diffuse, gold-metallic coating which is ideal for use in the
MIR-FIR wavelength range. Typical reflectance is >90% over the effective wavelength range. Infragold-LF is thermally stable, with nooutgassing reported. This coating is the most highly lambertian and durable coating available for applications in the
MIR-FIR wavelength region. Infragold-LF is suitable for integrating spheres and BRDF standards.
The reflectance data for Infragold-LF MIR-FIR reflectance coating is presented in Figure 5 on page 42.

5

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
Spectraflect Reflectance Coating
Reflectivity: @ 600 nm
Effective Spectral Range:
Thermal Stability:
Laser Damage Threshold:
LASER SOURCE

SPECTRAFLECT

BRDF - Spectraflect
Reflectance Coating
Plot of intensity of scattered lightvs angle for a sample of Spectraflectreflectance coating. The sample was
illuminated with a 632.8 nm laser at
5° from normal. The data points are
the measured values; the circle is atheoretical plot of a 100% reflecting,perfectly lambertian surface.
(A discussion on Bidirectional
Reflectance Distribution Function(BRDF) is found on pages 48 - 49 ).

Duraflect Reflectance Coating
Reflectivity: @ 600 nm
94 - 96%
Effective Spectral Range:
350 to 1200 nm
Thermal Stability:
to 80°C
Laser Damage Threshold:
N/A
LASER SOURCE

DURAFLECT

Figure 1 - Spectraflect Reflectance Coating

96 - 98%
350 to 2400 nm
to 100°C
1.7 J/cm2

Figure 2 - Duraflect Reflectance Coating

BRDF - Duraflect
Reflectance Coating
Plot of intensity of scattered lightvs angle for a sample of Duraflectreflectance coating. The sample was
illuminated with a 632.8 nm laser at
5° from normal. The data points are themeasured values; the circle is a theoretical plot of a 100% reflecting, perfectly
lambertian surface. (A discussion on
Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution
Function (BRDF) is found on
pages 48 - 49).

Duraflect-II Reflectance Coating
Reflectivity: @ 600 nm
95 - 97%
Effective Spectral Range:
300 to 1200 nm
Thermal Stability:
to 100°C

Figure 3 - Duraflect-II Reflectance Coating

6

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSInfragold NIR/MIR Reflectance Coating
Reflectivity: @ 1 - 16 µm
Effective Spectral Range:
Thermal Stability:
Laser Damage Threshold:
LASER SOURCE

Figure 4 - Infragold NIR/MIR Reflectance Coating

92 - 96%
300 to 2400 nm
N/A
19.3 J/cm2 @ 10.6 µm
BRDF - Infragold
Reflectance Coating
Plot of intensity of scattered light vs angle
for a sample of Infragold reflectancecoating. The sample was illuminatedwith a 10.6 µm laser at 5° from normal.
The data points are the measured values;
the circle is a theoretical plot of a 100%
reflecting, perfectly lambertian surface.
(A discussion on Bidirectional ReflectanceDistribution Function (BRDF) is foundon pages 48 - 49 ).

INFRAGOLD

Infragold-LF MIR-FIR Reflectance Coating
Reflectivity:
Effective Spectral Range:
Thermal Stability:
Laser Damage Threshold:
LASER SOURCE

Figure 5 - Infragold-LF MIR/FIR Reflectance Coating

90 - 94%
MIR-FIR
N/A
19.3 J/cm2 @10.6 µm

BRDF - Infragold-LF
Reflectance Coating
Plot of intensity of scattered light vs angle
for a sample of Infragold-LF reflectancecoating. The sample was illuminatedwith a 10.6 µm laser at 5° from normal.
The data points are the measured values;
the circle is a theoretical plot of a 100%
reflecting, perfectly lambertian surface.
(A discussion on Bidirectional ReflectanceDistribution Function (BRDF) is foundon pages 48 - 49 ).

INFRAGOLD-LF

7

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
1.6 TYPICAL REFLECTANCE DATA OF LABSPHERE REFLECTANCE COATINGSWAVELENGTH (nm)SPECTRALONSPECTRAFLECTDURAFLECTDURAFLECT IIINFRAGOLDINFRAGOLD-LF

250

0.96

0.94

0.63

0.74

-

-

300

0.98

0.96

0.87

0.89

-

-

350

0.99

0.97

0.94

0.94

0.342

0.327

400

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.96

0.322

0.314

450

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.97

0.373

0.380

500

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.97

0.412

0.414

550

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.97

0.579

0.559

600

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.97

0.789

0.750

650

0.99

0.98

0.96

0.97

0.848

0.800

700

0.99

0.97

0.96

0.97

0.883

0.820

750

0.99

0.97

0.96

0.97

0.9000

0.837

800

0.99

0.97

0.96

0.97

0.911

0.858

850

0.99

0.97

0.95

0.97

0.921

0.869

900

0.99

0.97

0.95

0.97

0.925

0.871

950

0.99

0.97

0.96

0.96

0.931

0.877

1000

0.99

0.97

0.95

0.95

0.933

0.876

1050

0.99

0.96

0.95

0.97

0.933

0.877

1100

0.99

0.96

0.95

0.96

0.936

0.878

1150

0.99

0.96

0.95

0.96

0.937

0.878

1200

0.99

0.95

0.94

0.95

0.938

0.880

1250

0.99

0.95

0.95

0.94

0.940

0.883

1300

0.99

0.95

0.95

0.92

0.939

0.912

1350

0.99

0.94

0.94

0.91

0.939

0.884

1400

0.99

0.93

0.93

0.79

0.940

0.884

1450

0.99

0.91

0.93

0.70

0.941

0.893

1500

0.99

0.92

0.93

0.82

0.942

0.892

1550

0.99

0.92

0.94

0.77

0.944

0.904

1600

0.99

0.92

0.93

0.85

0.944

0.903

1650

0.99

0.92

0.93

0.88

0.944

0.908

1700

0.98

0.92

0.88

0.86

0.943

0.907

1750

0.98

0.91

0.88

0.86

0.944

0.909

1800

0.98

0.91

0.90

0.84

0.945

0.911

1850

0.98

0.91

0.91

0.82

0.944

0.910

1900

0.98

0.86

0.88

0.80

0.942

0.909

1950

0.97

0.83

0.87

0.77

0.939

0.907

2000

0.97

0.85

0.89

0.77

0.943

0.906

2050

0.95

0.86

0.89

0.75

0.943

0.907

2100

0.94

0.86

0.89

0.74

0.941

0.911

2150

0.94

0.87

0.87

0.69

0.944

0.912

2200

0.96

0.87

0.89

0.58

0.942

0.910

2250

0.96

0.86

0.73

0.44

0.943

0.908

2300

0.95

0.84

0.71

0.44

0.940

0.908

2350

0.95

0.83

0.75

0.44

0.942

0.909

2400

0.94

0.82

0.74

0.44

0.937

0.910

2450

0.93

0.80

0.74

0.47

0.939

0.911

2500

0.93

0.77

0.78

0.45

0.938

0.911

2.5-20µ

-

-

-

-

>0.940>0.9108

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSSECTION 2. SPECTRALON REFLECTANCE MATERIAL
Spectralon reflectance material is a thermoplastic resin that can be machined into a wide variety of shapes for the construction of opticalcomponents. The material has a hardness roughly equal to that of high-density polyethylene and is thermally stable to >350° C. It ischemically inert to all but the most powerful bases such as sodium amide and organo-sodium or lithium compounds. The material isextremely hydrophobic. Gross contamination of the material or marring of the optical surface can be remedied by sanding under astream of running water. This surface refinishing both restores the original topography of the surface and returns the material to its
original reflectance. Weathering tests on the material show no damage upon exposure to atmospheric UV flux. The material shows nosign of optical or physical degradation after long-term immersion testing in sea water.
Spectralon reflectance material gives the highest diffuse reflectance of any known material or coating over the UV-VIS-NIR region of
the spectrum. The reflectance is generally >99% over a range from 400 to 1500 nm and >95% from 250 to 2500 nm. Surface orsubsurface contamination may lower the reflectance at the extreme upper and lower ends of the spectral range. The material is also
highly lambertian at wavelengths from 0.257 µm to 10.6 µm, although the material exhibits much lower reflectance at 10.6 µm due toabsorbance by the resin.
The surface and immediate subsurface structure of Spectralon exhibits highly lambertian behavior. The porous network of thermoplastic produces multiple reflections in the first few tenths of a millimeter of Spectralon. Although it is extremely hydrophobic, this “openstructure” readily absorbs non-polar solvents, greases and oils. Impurities are difficult to remove from Spectralon; thus, the material
should be kept free from contaminants to maintain its reflectance properties.
The use of Spectralon should be limited to the UV-VIS-NIR. Spectralon exhibits absorbances at 2800 nm, then absorbs strongly(<20% reflectance) from 5.4 to 8 µm. Plated metal surfaces, such as the Labsphere Infragold-IR standards, are recommended as diffuse
reflectance standards for the MIR.
Three grades of Spectralon reflectance material are available: optical-grade, laser-grade and space-grade. Optical-grade Spectralon ischaracterized by a high-reflectance and lambertian behavior over the UV-VIS-NIR wavelength region. Laser-grade Spectralon offers thesame physical characteristics as optical-grade materials but is a different formulation of resin that gives enhanced performance whenused in laser pump cavities. Space-grade Spectralon combines high-reflectance with an extremely lambertian reflectance profile and is
the material of choice for terrestrial remote sensing applications. The reflectance data of optical-grade, laser-grade and space-grade
Spectralon materials are shown on the following page.

9

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.1 Reflectance Data of Optical-, Laser- and Space-Grade Spectralon Reflectance Materials

Wavelength

SRM-99O

SRM-99L

SRM-99S

250
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
1100
1200
1300
1400
1500
1600
1700
1800
1900
2000
2100
2200
2300
2400
2500

0.950
0.985
0.990
0.991
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.991
0.993
0.993
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.988
0.989
0.981
0.976
0.953
0.973
0.972
0.955
0.950

0.929
0.970
0.987
0.987
0.989
0.987
0.986
0.987
0.988
0.987
0.985
0.985
0.982
0.982
0.982
0.977
0.976
0.968
0.957
0.924
0.944
0.934
0.926
0.902

0.950
0.985
0.990
0.991
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.991
0.993
0.993
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.991
0.991
0.988
0.989
0.981
0.976
0.953
0.973
0.972
0.955
0.950

Figure 6 - Optical-Grade Spectralon Material
Typical 8° Hemispherical Reflectance- SRM-990

Figure 7 - Laser-Grade Spectralon Material
Typical 8° Hemispherical Reflectance- SRM-99L

Figure 8 - Space-Grade Spectralon Material
Typical 8° Hemispherical Reflectance- SRM-99S

SRM-99S space-grade Spectralon exhibits
the same high reflectance and extremely
lambertian profile as optical-grade
Spectralon. Space-grade Spectralon,
however, is fabricated under an advanced
manufacturing process to ensure that thematerial is of the highest purity andcleanliness, essential for space applications.

10A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.2 Physical, Thermo-Optical and Electronic Properties of Spectralon
Property
Density:
Water Permeability:
Hardness:
Thermal Stability:
Coefficient of Linear Expansion:
Vacuum Stability:
Flammability:

ASTM Test
**
D-570
D-785
**
D-696
**
**

Yield Stress:
Ultimate Stress:
Young's Modulus:
Elongation in 2 in.:Elongation at Failure:
Poisson's Ratio:
Deformation under load:

D-638
D-638
**
D-638
D-638
E-132
D-621
D-621
**
**
**
D-149
D-542
UL-94

Absorbance (as):Emittance (e):Volume Resistivity:
Dielectric Strength:
Refractive Index:
Flammability Rating:Value
1.25 - 1.5 g/cm3<0.001% (hydrophobic)
20 - 30 Shore D
Decomposes at >400°C
5.5 - 6.5 x 10-5 in/in -°F; 10-4°C-1
No outgassing except for entrained air
Non-flammable (UL rating V-O)
Incompatible with non-polar solvents and greases
208 psi
891 psi
35774 psi
42.8%
91.3%
0.296
13.3 % @ 250 lbs.
22.6% @ 500 lbs.
0.07
0.88
>1018 ohm/cm
18 V/µm
1.35
V-O

2.3 Reflectance Properties of Spectralon
Spectralon exhibits relatively flat spectral distribution over most of the UV-VIS-NIR. From 250 to 2500 nm, Spectralon exhibits areflectance variance of <5% between 360 - 740 nm (VIS) the variance in reflectance is <0.5%. These spectral properties exceed those of
most paints, which show strong absorbances in the UV due to absorbances by TiO 2 or similar pigments. The hydrophobic nature ofSpectralon also leads to exclusion of water overtone bands in the NIR which may occur in barium-sulfate-based materials. The open
structure of Spectralon causes both reflectance and transmittance, but not absorbance of light. For applications requiring totallyopaque reflectance, barium sulfate may be added to Spectralon without greatly affecting the reflectance properties. Reflectance data ofboth Spectralon and barium-sulfate-doped Spectralon is shown in the following illustration (Figure 11).
Figure 9 - Reflectance Data of Spectralon SRS-99
and Barium-Sulfate-Doped Spectralon

Wavelength
(nm)
300
400
500
600
700
800
900
1000
1100
1200
1300
1400
1500
1600
1700
1800
1900
2000
2100
2200
2300
2400
2500

Spectralon
SRS-99
0.984
0.991
0.991
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.992
0.993
0.992
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.990
0.989
0.986
0.987
0.976
0.965
0.948
0.968
0.968
0.948
0.955

Barium-Sulfate
Doped-Spectralon
0.952
0.984
0.986
0.987
0.988
0.986
0.985
0.985
0.991
0.989
0.987
0.968
0.966
0.979
0.973
0.976
0.916
0.926
0.945
0.961
0.962
0.935
0.927

11

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.4 Reflectance Properties of Thin Sections of Spectralon
The reflectance of Spectralon decreases with decreasing thickness over most of the spectrum. Thin sections of Spectralon, less than
4 mm, may be doped with barium sulfate to maintain high reflectance and diffuse properties. The figures below illustrate thereflectance properties of thin sections of Spectralon and barium-sulfate-doped Spectralon.
325 nmDoped
450 nm
Doped
Figure 10
Thickness Spectralon Spectralon Thickness Spectralon Spectralon
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.934
0.944
0.959
0.966
0.970
0.967
0.973
0.978
0.988
0.987
0.985
0.984
0.985

0.943
0.951
0.958
0.961
0.957
0.961
0.956
0.956
0.956
0.956
0.956
0.956
0.956

1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.937
0.951
0.962
0.969
0.973
0.973
0.977
0.988
0.992
0.992
0.991
0.990
0.991

0.956
0.966
0.972
0.977
0.977
0.977
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978

555 nm
Doped
720 nm
Doped
Figure 11
Thickness Spectralon Spectralon Thickness Spectralon Spectralon
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.933
0.949
0.960
0.968
0.972
0.973
0.976
0.986
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.989
0.990

0.955
0.966
0.973
0.978
0.98
0.979
0.980
0.980
0.980
0.980
0.980
0.980
0.980

1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.928
0.948
0.958
0.967
0.970
0.973
0.976
0.984
0.988
0.988
0.987
0.988
0.989

0.956
0.961
0.971
0.974
0.976
0.978
0.977
0.977
0.977
0.977
0.977
0.977
0.977

850 nmDoped
1060 nm
Doped
Figure 12
Thickness Spectralon Spectralon Thickness Spectralon Spectralon
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.922
0.946
0.956
0.966
0.969
0.972
0.976
0.983
0.985
0.985
0.986
0.986
0.987

0.955
0.959
0.969
0.973
0.975
0.979
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983
0.983

1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
6.0
6.5
7.0

0.916
0.942
0.954
0.964
0.968
0.971
0.974
0.982
0.986
0.987
0.986
0.987
0.988

0.943
0.958
0.966
0.973
0.975
0.977
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978
0.978

12

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.5 Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF)
The Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) is defined as the ratio of the radiance of a sample to the irradiance
upon that sample, for a given direction of incidence and direction of scatter.
The incident direction is specified by two angles: the angle of incidence (θi), and the incident azimuth angle (φi). Similarly, thescatter direction is specified by the scatter angle (θs) and the scatter azimuth angle (φs). These angles are defined in the beam coordinate system represented in Figure 15.

ZB

Ω

S

I

θs
θi

-XB

φs
φi = πXB

Figure6.13- BeamCoordinate
FigureBeamCoordinate
System:System
The origin of the beam coordinate system is the point at which the central ray of the incident
radiation (I) strikes the sample surface. The ZB axis is normal to the sample surface, and the XB axis
lies in the plane defined by ZB and I. The incident direction is given by (θi,φi), where φi = π bydefinition. The scatter direction is given by (θs,φs). Ω is the solid-angle subtended by the receiver.

BRDF is typically measured using an apparatus which allows the sample to be illuminated with a collimated or slightly converging
beam from a range of incident directions. A receiver, subtending solid angle Ω, views the entire illuminated area and can be positioned at a range of scatter directions. For any given configuration, an average sample irradiance is calculated from the power P i
incident on the sample and the illuminated area A. An average sample radiance L e is calculated from the power P s collected by thereceiver, the receiver solid-angle, and the area of illumination. The sample BRDF is calculated as the ratio of these two quantities, as
represented in equation (1).

(1)

BRDF =

Le
Ee=(Ps/ΩAcosθs)(Pi /A)=Ps
PiΩcosθs[sr-1]

Alternatively, the relative radiance of the sample may be measured versus that of a standard whose BRDF is known for the bidirectional geometry in question. The sample BRDF may then be calculated by multiplying the resulting ratio by the known BRDF of
the standard.
It is common practice to limit the collection of BRDF data to receiver positions in the plane of incidence, which is defined by thecentral ray of the incident flux and the sample normal. This is referred to as “in-plane” data. Similarly, data collected with receiver
positions confined to the plane perpendicular to the plane-of-incidence, and containing the sample normal, is referred to as“cross-plane” data.
13

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSBRDF, with its units of inverse steradians, is a fairly abstract quantity. The BRDF of a given sample is closely related to a more
concrete quantity, however, its bidirectional reflectance factor. This is defined as the ratio of the flux scattered in a given direction
by the sample, to that which would be scattered in that direction by the perfect reflecting diffuser, under identical conditions ofillumination. The relation between BRDF (B) and bidirectional reflectance factor (R) is expressed in equation (2).
(2)

R(θi,φi,θs,φs) = πB(θi,φi,θs,φs)

The BRDF of a perfectly diffuse (lambertian) sample would be constant for all bidirectional geometries. Note, however, that thepower Ps collected by the receiver is strongly dependent on the scatter angle, θs, and becomes very small as θs approaches π/2.
For this reason, the effects of system noise, and other sources of measurement error, become much more pronounced at large
scatter angles.
Both the polarization state of the incident flux and the polarization bias of the receiver may be important variables in BRDF
measurement. Many scattering materials significantly depolarize incident flux; other materials selectively absorb flux with a certain
polarization. Complete characterization of sample scattering requires evaluation of these polarization effects. Note, however, thatmany BRDF instruments use sources of illumination, such as lasers, with a strong linear polarization, and the effects of thispolarization are not always taken into account in reporting results. Figures 16 and 17 represent the BRDF of Spectralon undervarious polarization conditions.

Figure 14 - In-Plane
In-Plane
BRDF
at at633nm- Incidence
30° Incidence
BRDF ofSpectralon
633nm;- 30°

In-Plane BRDF
of Spectralon
at 633nm;
Incidence
Figure 15 - In-Plane
BRDF
at 633nm --60°
60°
Incidence

Polarized Light

Polarized Light
0.4

BRDF(PP)BRDF(PP)

0.2

0.15

0.35
0.3
0.25
0.2

BRDF(PS)

BRDF (PS)

0.1

0.05

0.15
0.1
0.05
0

0
-90

-45

0
Angle of View

45

90

-90

-45

0
Angle of View

45

90

Figures
14and
and1415In-plane- In-Plane
BRDF
of Spectralon
633 nmFigures 13
BRDF
of Spectralon
at 633at
nm
BRDF measurements are typically dependent on the polarization bias of the receiver and the source of
illumination. These plots present data for Labsphere Spectralon Diffuse Reflectance Material, under linearlypolarized illumination, where the direction of polarization is parallel (P) to the plane of incidence. The receiveris also polarized, with bias parallel (P) or perpendicular (S) to the plane of incidence. For a material which
did not affect the polarization of the incident flux, observed BRDF for the cross-polarized configuration(PS) would be zero. For a perfect depolarizing sample, BRDF values would be identical for the two
measurement configurations.

The foregoing account of BRDF measurements is based upon ASTM Standard E1392-90, “Standard Practice for Angle-Resolved
Optical Scatter Measurements on Specular or Diffuse Surfaces.” This document includes an extremely detailed and lucid treatment of the subject of BRDF measurement, and is highly recommended as a starting point for further reading.

14

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.6 Variable Angle Reflectance Studies
Another measure of a material’s ability to scatter light is its total hemispherical reflectance as a factor of the angle of the incident
radiation. Spectralon samples ranging in nominal reflectance from 2% to 99% (measured at an incident radiation angle of 8°) were
measured at incident angles of 45° and 61°.
The measurements were made using a Labsphere RSA-PE-9/19 Reflectance Spectroscopy Accessory for a Perkin-Elmer Lambda 9
Spectrophotometer. The samples were then measured for absolute reflectance using NIST tiles 2019a and 2021 as standards. The
hemispherical reflectance factor was calculated as follows:

Reflectance Factor = R(sample) * R(ref)

Reflectance versus Incident Angle

Sample SRS-99 (99%)
Wavelength
(nm)
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
2100
2400

Sample SRS-60 (60%)∆R(45°)∆R (61°)+0.009-0.006-0.002-0.002-0.003-0.004+0.015+0.022+0.010-0.005+0.001-0.003-0.002+0.000+0.013+0.015

Sample SRS-20 (20%)
Wavelength
(nm)
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
2100
2400

Wavelength
(nm)
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
2100
2400

∆R(45°)∆R(61°)+0.026+0.021+0.033+0.027+0.024+0.020+0.029+0.040+0.064+0.050+0.051+0.042+0.042+0.040+0.040+0.042

Sample SRS-02 (2%)∆R(45°)∆R (61°)+0.021+0.021+0.028+0.024+0.022+0.020+0.023+0.023+0.051+0.051+0.059+0.056+0.055+0.061+0.050+0.052

Wavelength
(nm)
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
2100
2400

∆R(45°)∆R(61°)+0.021+0.017+0.008+0.007+0.004+0.004+0.008+0.013+0.031+0.023+0.015+0.014+0.011+0.010+0.014+0.022

VALUES SHOWN ARE ∆R/R

15

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.7 Environmental Testing of Spectralon Material
Spectralon was exposed to atomic oxygen from an ERC plasma stream, with a fluence of ≈5.3 x 1020 oxygen ions per squarecentimeter, with a vacuum in the range of 10 -5 torr. Post-exposure measurements of the Spectralon showed no change in either
the reflectance or the BRDF of the material.(1)Spectralon was bombarded with low energy protons at a current density of 10 12 protons cm-2 at 40 KeV in a vacuum of ≤10 -6
torr. As with the atomic oxygen exposure, no change was seen in either the reflectance or BRDF of the material frompre-exposure measurements.(1)Spectralon test samples were exposed to deep and mid-UV (unfiltered Hg arc lamp) at a vacuum of ≤10-6 torr with the equivalentof 2 suns for 500 equivalent sun hours. At 110 sun hours, a lowering of reflectance of between 5 - 10 % in the UV was noted; at
500 sun hours, a slight yellowing in the VIS was noted, along with a 20% total drop in the UV (250 nm). However, upon
returning to atmospheric conditions, the material returned to near original values, presumably due to oxidation and loss of thesurface contaminants that caused the discoloration.(1) Data from another source indicates that the loss of reflectance in the UV
and subsequent yellowing does not occur if Spectralon is subjected to a vacuum bakeout procedure. Spectralon has undergone
extensive testing for UV-VUV exposure, proton bombardment, atomic oxygen exposure an α-Lyman radiation. Please contact
Labsphere for a list of published articles for results of this testing.
Spectralon plates were subjected to electron beam bombardment with a beam energy of 10KeV at densities of 0.5, 1.0, and 5.0
nA cm-2. The Spectralon was uniformly charged to a potential of -6000V. Investigation of the discharge phenomenon overextended periods showed no discharge at any current density or charging.(1)Spectralon has undergone two types of weathering and environmental tests. After measuring the initial reflectance of several
samples, they were exposed to the outside environment of central New Hampshire for up to two years. At three month intervals,
the samples were cleaned and gently sanded under a stream of tap water to restore the original surface finish. Measurements
taken at 50 nm intervals throughout the visible wavelength region revealed essentially no change in reflectance. The results of
those tests are shown below.
Environmental Exposure
Wavelength(nm)

Original
Reflectance

Reflectance after Exposure
1 Month
4 Months
1.5 Years

400
450
500
550
600
650
700

0.988
0.990
0.989
0.987
0.987
0.987
0.986

0.987
0.988
0.985
0.983
0.984
0.985
0.983

0.988
0.988
0.987
0.987
0.988
0.988
0.988

0.986
0.990
0.985
0.986
0.988
0.988
0.987

In a second test, samples of the same material were immersed in sea water. After six months, no change in reflectance was noted.
No surface preparation or cleaning was necessary as the samples were not wetted by sea water, neither initially or after
six months immersion.

(1) MERIS Activities Report, Doc. No. PO.RP.LSP.ME.0008 10-28-93. This work was performed by Lockheed in conjunction with flight
qualification of Spectralon Reflectance Material for use on the European Space Agency MERIS sensor, launched in 1997.

16

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.8 Spectralon Gray Scale Material
Spectralon can be doped with black pigment to produce spectrally flat gray scale standards and targets. Spectralon gray materials havephysical and spectral properties similar to Spectralon and are useful as standards for calibration of various optical instruments,
including those used in blood analysis, CCD arrays and night vision devices. The reflectance data of representative samples ofSpectralon gray scale materials are shown below in Figure 18.

SRS-99SRS-80
SRS-75Figure 16 Spectralon
Gray Scale
Reflectance Data

SRS-60
SRS-50
SRS-40

SRS-20
SRS-10
SRS-05
SRS-02

2.9 Spectralon High-Reflectance Gray Scale Material
Gray scale Spectralon is used to establish the linearity and accuracy of reflectance spectrophotometers and colorimeters, much in theway that calibrated neutral density filters are used in transmittance instruments. While standard Spectralon gray scale sets are suitablefor users who need a wide dynamic range of reflectance, certain applications require sets of gray scale that are abbreviated in range but
not in the number of steps of calibration. Industries such as clay and processed minerals, paper and paints may require such a scale,
which fairly accurately reproduces the range of reflectances shown by such products.
High-reflectance gray scale Spectralon allows the user to calibrate and validate their instrument over a range of reflectance from80 - 94%, in roughly 2% reflectance factor steps. The standards are available with NIST-traceable calibration in geometries of
8°/hemispherical (specular included or excluded) and 0°/45° geometry. The reflectance data of representative samples of highreflectance gray scale Spectralon material is shown in Figure 19.
Figure 17 Spectralon
High-Reflectance
Gray Scale
Reflectance Data

17

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.10 Spectralon Color Materials
Several colorimetric standards are available today, including Spectralon color materials, ceramic tiles, painted chips and Carrera
glass. Spectralon color materials have the same physical properties as Spectralon. Therefore, they solve many of the problems
associated with other standards. Available in an endless range of colors, Spectralon color materials offer the durability typicallylacking in painted chips and ceramic tiles. Unlike ceramic tiles, Spectralon color materials are not subject to the restriction of a
specific measurement geometry.
Slight translucency in supposedly opaque material can cause errors due to undetected light losses. Spectralon color standards
exhibit significantly less translucency error than Carrera glass standards. Spectralon color standards are also less temperaturesensitive than previously available standards and thus less subject to chromatic drift when warmed under intense illumination.

Figure 18 Reflectance Data ofSpectralon Color Standards
Red, Yellow, Green and Blue

Figure 19 Reflectance Data ofSpectralon Color Standards
Cyan, Purple, Violet and Orange

18

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.11 Spectralon Color Pastel Materials
Spectralon color pastel materials are particularly useful in the paper and textile industries, where colors are frequently lesssaturated than those used in plastics or metals. Color pastel materials exhibit the same high reflectance, lambertian behavior,
stability and durability as Spectralon color materials, however, they contain a lower concentrate of color. Because of thisformulation, the material is exceptionally non-thermochromic. This means that the material is unaffected by temperature
shifts in the manufacturing or laboratory environment. The thermally stable properties of Spectralon color pastel material
make it the ideal material for standards used in laboratory or manufacturing situations where the environment may be
unpredictable. Spectralon color pastel standards aid in developing consistent color reproduction for manufacturers of
products such as paper and textiles.

Figure 20 Reflectance Data ofSpectralon Color Pastel Standards
Red, Yellow, Green and Blue

Figure 21 Reflectance Data ofSpectralon Color Pastel Standards
Cyan, Purple, Violet and Orange

19

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.12 Spectralon Fluorescence Materials
Spectralon fluorescence materials provide highly stable, reproducible fluorescence reflectance over long periods in varying conditions. Spectralon provides the ideal matrix for inorganic fluors which are photochemically stable compared to their organic
counterparts. The stability of the inorganic fluors, when combined with the durability of Spectralon, results in rugged, longlasting fluorescence standards for both field and laboratory use.
The following charts show the Radiance Factor and Color Stimulus Function of Labsphere fluorescence materials.

Figure 22 SFS-421
Blue-Violet
Fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 421 nm

Figure 23 SFS-466
Bright Blue
Fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 466 nm,
and 575 nm

20

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
Figure 24 SFS-417
Broadband Blue/White
Fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 417 nm,
and 481nm

Figure 25 SFS-425
Broadband Bright Blue/White
Fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 425 nm,
and 564 nm

21

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
Figure 26 SFS-400
Orange fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 400 nm,
and 588 nm

Figure 27 SFS-525
Green Fluorescence
Excitation Maxima
at 525 nm

22

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
2.13 Spectralon UV-VIS-NIR Diffuser Material
Spectralon diffuser material consists of thin sections, generally between 0.1 and 1.0 mm, of specially formulated Spectralon.
This material is designed to transmit and effectively scatter incident light. Diffusers fabricated from Spectralon are particularly
useful for broad band diffusion of optical radiation, specifically over the UV, as well as the visible and near-infrared spectral
regions. Spectralon diffuser material is invaluable in reducing the sensitivity of detectors to beam alignment and improving theuniformity of light sources.
Spectralon diffusers have a useful range from 250 to 2500 nm and are significantly more diffuse than double-ground quartz.
By changing various parameters within the formulation, a range of transmittance can be obtained (see Figure 30). With anincrease in transmittance, however, there is a corresponding lessening of the degree of diffuseness (see Figure 31). In addition,transmittance may vary by as much as 2-3% across a piece. These variations are a function of the thickness, density and otherfactors. At transmittances of 20% or less, Spectralon diffuser material is an almost perfect scatterer of incident radiation.
As with Spectralon reflectance material, diffuser material is totally hydrophobic and inert. When subjected to 24 hours of
atomic oxygen exposure (plasma ashing) a minimal weight loss has been reported and no degradation of the optical properties
was observed.

Figure 28 Total Hemispherical Transmittanceof Labsphere SDM Diffusers

Figure 29 Bidirectional Transmittance Distribution Function of Labsphere SDU
Diffusers(Data provided by D. Lowrance,
Martin Marietta, Boulder, CO.)23

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALS
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONSDESCRIPTION
Figure 1. 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance and BRDF of Spectraflect Reflectance Coating .............................................. 6
Figure 2. 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance and BRDF of Duraflect Reflectance Coating ................................................. 6
Figure 3. 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance of Duraflect-II Reflectance Coating ............................................................... 7
Figure 4. 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance and BRDF of Infragold Reflectance Coating ................................................. 7
Figure 5. 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance and BRDF of Infragold-LF Reflectance Coating............................................ 7
Figure 6. Typical 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance - Spectralon Optical-Grade Material (SRM-99O) .......................... 10
Figure 7. Typical 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance -Spectralon Laser-Grade Material (SRM-99L) ................................ 10
Figure 8. Typical 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance - Spectralon Space-Grade Material (SRM-99S) ............................... 10
Figure 9. Typical 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance of Spectralon SRS-99 and Barium-Sulfate-Doped Spectralon ......... 11
Figure 10. Reflectance Properties of Thin Sections of Spectralon - Wavelength 325 nm ............................................ 12
Figure 11. Reflectance Properties of Thin Sections of Spectralon - Wavelength 555 nm ............................................ 12
Figure 12. Reflectance Properties of Thin Sections of Spectralon - Wavelength 850 nm ............................................ 12
Figure 13. Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function - Beam Coordinate System ............................................. 13
Figure 14. In-Plane BRDF of Spectralon at 633 nm - 30° Incidence .......................................................................... 14
Figure 15. In-Plane BRDF of Spectralon at 633 nm - 60° Incidence .......................................................................... 14
Figure 16. Typical 8°/ Hemispherical Reflectance Data of Spectralon Gray Scale Material ........................................ 17
Figure 17. Reflectance Data of Spectralon High-Reflectance Gray Scale Material ...................................................... 17
Figure 18. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Color Standards (Red, Yellow, Green, Blue) ............................................. 18
Figure 19. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Color Standards (Cyan, Purple, Violet, Orange)....................................... 18
Figure 20. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Color Pastel Standards (Red, Yellow, Green, Blue) ................................... 19
Figure 21. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Color Pastel Standards (Cyan, Purple, Violet, Orange) ............................ 19
Figure 22. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence #SFS-421 ............................................................................. 20
Figure 23. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence # SFS-466 ............................................................................ 20
Figure 24. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence # SFS-417 ............................................................................ 21
Figure 25. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence # SFS-425 ............................................................................ 21
Figure 26. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence # SFS-400 ............................................................................ 22
Figure 27. Reflectance Data of Spectralon Fluorescence # SFS-525 ............................................................................ 22
Figure 28. Total Hemispherical Transmittance of Spectralon Diffuser Material (SDM) ............................................. 23
Figure 29. Bidirectional Transmittance Distribution Function of Spectralon Diffuser Material (SDU) ..................... 2324

A GUIDE TO REFLECTANCE COATINGS AND MATERIALSGENERAL REFERENCES

Budde, W., "Standards of Reflectance," Journal of Optical Society of America, 50 (30), 217-220 (1959).
Erb, W., "Requirements for Reflectance Standards and the Measurement of Their Reflection Values,"
Applied Optics, 14 (2).
Weidner, V.R., and J.J. Hsia, "Reflection Properties of Pressed Polytetrafluoroethylene Powder," Journal of
Optical Society of America, 71(7), 856-861 (1981).
Weidner, V.R. and J.J. Hsia, and K.L. Eckerle, "Exploratory Research in Reflectance and Fluorescence Standards
at the National Bureau of Standards," Optics News, November, 18-20 (1986).
"Standard Practice for Angle Resolved Optical Scatter Measurements on Specular Diffuse Surfaces,"
ASTM Standard: E1392-90.

25