Difference Between Light Diffuser Sheet and Light Guide Plate

Lighting plays a crucial role in various applications, including displays, automotive lighting, and backlighting. Two commonly used components in these applications are LED diffuser sheets and light guide plates (LGP). Both of these components have similar functions, but they are designed differently and have different properties.

Difference in Functionality

LED diffuser sheets are used to diffuse light emitted from LED lights. The main function of a diffuser sheet is to scatter the light evenly in all directions. This results in a uniform and soft lighting effect, eliminating hotspots and shadows. LED diffuser sheets are typically made of a transparent material, such as polycarbonate or acrylic, and have a matte or frosted surface.

Light guide plates or lgp sheets, on the other hand, are used to guide light from a light source and distribute it evenly. Light guide plates are typically made of a transparent material, such as acrylic or polycarbonate, and have a smooth surface. Light enters the light guide plate through an edge or a surface, and is then redirected by internal reflection to the output surface, where it is emitted as a uniform light.

The Way They Diffuse Light Differ

One of the main differences between LED diffuser sheets and light guide plates is the way they diffuse light. LED light diffuser sheets diffuse light by scattering it in all directions, while light guide plates diffuse light by guiding it through internal reflection. This results in different lighting effects. LED diffuser sheets produce a soft and uniform light, while light guide plates produce a bright and uniform light.

Differences in Their Thickness

Another difference between LED diffuser sheets and light guide plates is their thickness. LED diffuser sheets are typically thinner than light guide plates, as they only need to scatter light. Light guide plates, on the other hand, need to guide light over a longer distance and therefore have to be thicker.

Different Optical Properties

LED diffuser sheets and light guide plates also have different optical properties. LED diffuser sheets have a lower transmission rate than light guide plates, as they scatter light in all directions. Light guide plates, on the other hand, have a higher transmission rate as they guide light through internal reflection. This results in higher luminous efficacy for light guide plates compared to LED diffuser sheets.

Applications

In terms of applications, LED light diffuser sheets are commonly used in backlighting applications, where a uniform and soft lighting effect is desired. They are also used in display panels, where they help to eliminate hotspots and improve the visual quality of the display.

Light guide plates, on the other hand, are commonly used in applications where a bright and uniform lighting effect is desired, such as automotive lighting, edge-lit signs, and backlit keyboards. They are also used in display panels, where they help to improve the brightness and uniformity of the display.

Final Word

In conclusion, LED diffuser sheets and light guide plates are both important components in lighting applications. While they have similar functions, they are designed differently and have different properties. LED diffuser sheets diffuse light by scattering it in all directions, while light guide plates diffuse light by guiding it through internal reflection. LED diffuser sheets are commonly used in backlighting applications, while light guide plates are commonly used in automotive lighting and display panels. Both components play a crucial role in ensuring uniform and bright lighting in various applications.