Filtering ultraviolet from Xenon arc lamp

In summary, there are several options for blocking harmful UV from a 150W Xenon arc lamp without blocking much visible light. One option is to use various types of glass with absorption/transmission spectra that block UV. Another option is to use polycarbonate, which is inexpensive and inherently filters out most UV. Common trade names for polycarbonate include Lexan and cheap sunglasses often use this material to claim 100% UV blocking.
  • #1
Artlav
162
1
Hello.

What sort of commonly accessible material can block harmful UV from a 150W Xenon arc lamp, without blocking much of visible light?

Lamp relative spectrum (a bit around 250nm, growing to a lot at 400nm):
spectr.png


Enough UV should be blocked for the lamp to be usable as a regular household light source.
 
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  • #2
  • #3
UV filtering on the cheap

Try a piece of polycarbonate. It's dirt cheap and it inherently filters out most UV.
Even the cheapest sunglasses can claim to block 100% of UV because they just use PC lenses.

Common trade name being Lexan.
 

1. What is the purpose of filtering ultraviolet from a Xenon arc lamp?

The purpose of filtering ultraviolet (UV) light from a Xenon arc lamp is to protect both the lamp itself and any samples or materials being tested under the lamp. UV light can cause damage to the lamp's components and can also distort or degrade the samples being studied.

2. How does filtering UV light affect the spectrum of light emitted by the Xenon arc lamp?

Filtering UV light from a Xenon arc lamp will result in a decrease in the intensity of UV wavelengths in the emitted light spectrum. This can also result in a shift in the overall spectrum, as some filters may also block out certain visible light wavelengths.

3. What types of filters are typically used for filtering UV light from Xenon arc lamps?

There are several types of filters that can be used for this purpose, including glass, quartz, and plastic filters. These filters are typically coated with materials that absorb or reflect UV light, such as metal oxides or dyes.

4. How do you determine the appropriate filter to use for a specific Xenon arc lamp?

The appropriate filter to use will depend on the specific wavelengths of UV light emitted by the lamp and the desired level of filtration. This can be determined by measuring the lamp's spectrum using a spectrophotometer and selecting a filter with the appropriate optical properties to block out the desired wavelengths.

5. How often should the filters be replaced or cleaned?

The frequency of filter replacement or cleaning will depend on the type and quality of the filter, as well as the intensity and duration of use of the Xenon arc lamp. It is recommended to regularly monitor the filter and replace or clean it as needed to maintain optimal performance and protection for the lamp and samples.

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