LED diffusers generally come with two types of surface finishes—opal (milky) and frosted (translucent). The distribution of light through frosted diffusers is good but the LED light is quite visible. Opal diffusers give better results than frosted options—the light is more 

uniformly distributed and the LED is well concealed. LED diffusers are available in a variety of forms like UV-tolerant films and rigid sheets. Also, they are manufactured using various high quality plastic materials. The different types of diffuser materials and their benefits are listed below.

Polycarbonate (PC): This is a thermoplastic that has been customised for use in LED parts like reflectors, lenses and, most importantly, diffusers. PC components can be thinner and lighter than glass, and the material offers flexibility in design. Polycarbonate can be moulded in the form of sheets and films which can be an excellent choice for diffusion of LED hot spots.

It is almost unbreakable, hence scoring over glass because of its high strength and elastic coefficient.It can resist extreme temperatures.

• As it is more durable and impact-resistant, it has a longer life span making it cost-effective.
• It provides a soft, diffused light.
• It is very light and thin to handle during manufacturing.
• Can be used to create complex shapes like curved light diffusers.
• Available in UV stabilised grades for outdoor use.

Acrylic or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA): If you want a diffusion solution with fire-resistant properties, then polycarbonate is the best choice, but if you are looking for optical properties and the highest level of illuminance, acrylic or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is the right choice. PMMA has superior optical properties compared to PC. It offers good light transmission and is easy to fabricate.

• It has superior optical properties and illuminance.
• It has the highest light transmission.
• It is naturally UV stable, and this property can also be enhanced.
• It has excellent weather resistance and good high-temperature performance.
• It provides design flexibility.
• An acrylic plate has excellent weatherability and high surface gloss.
• It is low cost and easy to mould.

Polypropylene: Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic made from a combination of propylene monomers. It is used in a variety of applications like packaging for consumer products, plastic parts for various industries and light diffusers. It is a new material used in the light diffuser industry and needs more time for it to be tested.

• Its toughness is similar to that of PC.
• Its light transmission is equivalent to that of PC, and can reach about 85 per cent.
• Less dust absorption than PC.
• Production operations are relatively simple.

Polystyrene: Polystyrene (PS) is a naturally transparent thermoplastic. It is available in the form of solid plastic as well as rigid foam material. It is used in a variety of consumer products and light diffusion solutions. But this material is controversial as it is slow to biodegrade.

• It is very low on cost.
• It is wear resistant and scratch resistant.
• Its chemical stability is good.
• It has good surface anti-static properties to prevent dust adsorption.
• It provides good optical transmittance and strong refraction.