Imaging-Based Metrics Drawn from Visual Perception of Haze and Clarity of Materials. I. Method, Analysis, and Distance-Dependent Transparency

A versatile imaging‐based method is presented for quantifying the transparency of materials based on “illumination diffusion” (ID), representing scattering‐ and refraction‐induced change in the spatial distribution of transmitted light intensity. Samples are backlit through a graticule mask, with analysis performed by comparative evaluation of graticule images recorded as‐is and viewed through a sample, mimicking visual perception. ID‐haze is quantified as the reduction of contrast, while ID‐sharpness is derived from imaged knife‐edge acuity. Measurements are performed for diverse materials, including clarified polyolefins, silica‐filled amorphous polymers, semicrystalline films, and etched polymer sheets. Comparisons with the respective haze and clarity values obtained using a common ASTM D1003 haze‐meter are made in terms of their quantitative correlation and suitability for applications. In particular, unlike conventional instruments, ID‐based analysis captures the variation of transparency with sample‐to‐object “airgap” distance. Gratifyingly, ID‐haze generally features a one‐to‐one correlation with standard ASTM haze, when determined at a specific distance. ... mehrThe presented method also enables sensitive detection of local defects—differentiating them from large‐area characteristics—and accurately extracts the contribution of luminescence to loss of transparency. ID‐based method therewith offers unique opportunities for application‐ and airgap‐specific transparency analysis, and advanced options for optical process‐ and quality control.