LED lens material performance comparison and selection guide
26 Jul, 2025
When designing LED lighting systems, selecting the right lens material is crucial for optimal performance. This guide compares popular LED lens materials and provides recommendations for applications like TV lenses, wall-washing light lenses, and general LED lighting.
Common LED Lens Materials
1. PMMA (Poly methyl methacrylate)
Light Transmission: 92-93%
Heat Resistance: Up to 85°C
UV Resistance: Moderate (requires additives)
Best For: TV lenses, indoor lighting
2. PC (Polycarbonate)
Light Transmission: 88-89%
Heat Resistance: Up to 120°C
UV Resistance: Good (with coatings)
Best For: Wall-washing light lenses, outdoor applications
3. Glass
Light Transmission: 90-95%
Heat Resistance: Excellent (>500°C)
UV Resistance: Excellent
Best For: High-end applications, harsh environments
4. Silicone
Light Transmission: 90-92%
Heat Resistance: Up to 200°C
UV Resistance: Excellent
Best For: High-power LED applications
Selection Criteria for LED Lenses
For TV Lenses:
PMMA is typically preferred for TV lenses due to its excellent light transmission and ability to maintain color accuracy. The material's moderate heat resistance is sufficient for TV backlighting applications.
For Wall-Washing Light Lenses:
Polycarbonate is often the best choice for wall-washing light lenses because of its durability and better heat resistance compared to PMMA. The slightly lower light transmission is compensated by the material's impact resistance for outdoor applications.
For General LED Lense consider the following factors when selecting materials:
Operating Environment: Outdoor vs. indoor
Temperature Requirements: High-power LEDs need heat-resistant materials
Optical Requirements: Beam angle, light distribution
Durability Needs: Impact resistance for vulnerable locations
Conclusion
The choice of LED lens material significantly impacts the performance and longevity of your lighting system. For TV lenses, prioritize optical clarity with PMMA. Wall-washing light lenses benefit from PC's durability. High-power applications may require silicone or glass for superior thermal performance. Always consider the specific requirements of your application when selecting lens materials.
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