Photons from the sun get scattered as they penetrate our atmosphere and bounce around in the air, enabling us to see objects that are not directly illuminated by the sun and facilitating the process of light diffusion necessary for greenhouse cultivation. This natural diffusion of sunlight is also why the sky looks blue and is integral to achieving the right light diffusion for greenhouse lighting. This is called “Rayleigh Scattering” (named after the nineteenth-century British physicist Lord Rayleigh) which states that the shorter wavelength of blue light that is higher energy gets scattered by air molecules in our atmosphere that are smaller than the wavelengths of light themselves. The high energy, shorter wavelength, of blue gets scattered much more than the longer wavelength photons in the visible spectrum, contributing to the light diffusion beneficial for plant growth in greenhouses.

Using fabric or cloth to diffuse LED strips is an effective and flexible way to achieve softer, more even lighting in various applications. This method involves placing fabric or cloth materials in front of or around the LED strips to diffuse and spread the light more evenly.

However, to be clear I am by no means saying HID or HPS is the better light choice. I’ve covered this topic back in my days with one of the leading horticultural lighting companies in the world and I believe both technologies have their place in the industry. Some growers have definitely proven better yields and flavor profiles because of the possible spectral advantages of LEDs. I believe the LED manufacturers will soon combine the known light quality advantages of the spectrum while also utilizing light diffusion in combination for optimum performance.

Diffused lighting interior design

The direct light from LED strips can sometimes be harsh or uneven, creating unwanted shadows and glare. To enhance the quality of light and create a more ambient atmosphere, diffusing LED strips is an effective solution. In this article, we will look into 20+ common methods on how to diffuse LED strip at home as well as create a more even and softer glow to reduce hotspots and make the light appear more uniform.

Creating plush toys to diffuse LED strips involves designing a toy that incorporates both lighting and comfort. By using soft fabrics for the exterior, diffusing materials for even light distribution, and secure placement of LED strips and power supplies, you can create a functional and attractive plush toy that provides a gentle, soothing light.

Using a 3D printer to create custom diffusers tailored to your specific LED strip and application is another solution to diffuse LED strips. You can print diffusers with varying thicknesses and patterns for different effects, which provides a high degree of customization and control over the lighting effect, making it an excellent choice for unique or specialized lighting setups.

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Both milk glass and opal glass are excellent choices for diffusing LED strips, offering high-quality light diffusion and a sophisticated aesthetic. The method focuses on placing these two materials in front of the LED strip since they are excellent at diffusing light and are commonly used in lamp designs.

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We now understand that the optimized sun spectrum plus the light diffusion from UbiGro’s ‘layer of light’ are both contributing to increased photosynthesis, and therefore yields, for the grower. Both components of light quality – spectrum and light diffusion – are simultaneously improved by UbiGro, highlighting the significant benefits of light diffusion in enhancing greenhouse productivity.

Using multiple layers of diffusion by combining different diffusing methods, such as using a diffuser cover along with frosted acrylic or a diffusing film, can enhance the quality of light from LED strips, offering improved softness and uniformity. This method is particularly useful for creating a more even and diffuse light source, minimizing hotspots and harsh shadows.

Another more recent study on light diffusion on cucumbers by Wageningen University stated: “Diffuse light has a positive influence on the production of cucumbers, especially during the summer, for greenhouse lighting. This positive effect can be explained by a change in light penetration into the crop and by an increased photosynthesis capacity, so that a crop like cucumber can utilize diffuse light better than direct light for optimal plant growth. In addition, diffuse roof material resulted in a lower crop temperature, especially higher in the crop which likely leads to more optimal conditions for photosynthesis in greenhouse lighting.” With a higher diffuse light component, not only were the plants able to photosynthesize better in the lower canopy, but better temperature uniformity also aided in overall plant health and optimal plant growth.

The horticultural industry is always looking for new ways to optimize yields in a sustainable manner, with a focus on greenhouse lighting crops correctly and efficiently. When we discuss lighting for crops, we tend to define optimal plant growth lighting with three measurements: light intensity (or quantity), light duration (or photoperiod), and light quality (spectrum and distribution), including the benefits of light diffusion.

Positioning the LED strip so that it faces away from the viewer, such as against a wall or ceiling is the easiest way to diffuse the LED strip since the light reflects off the surface before reaching the eyes, naturally diffusing it. Indirect lighting hides the source of the light, providing a softer, more diffused illumination.

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In this method, a frosted sheet would be placed in front of the LED strip to diffuse the light. This method is commonly used in lightboxes and backlit signs as an excellent way to enhance light diffusion, reduce glare, and achieve a smooth, even illumination.

The horticultural supplemental lighting industry has known the importance of light diffusion for greenhouse lighting and optimal plant growth for years. Have you ever noticed how HID lighting manufacturers all have reflectors that are “dimpled”? If you look at your shadow under an HID light with a dimpled reflector, you will see that your shadow under these luminaires looks blurry on the edges and is not very dark. This is because those dimples in the reflector are diffusing light. Conversely, if you look at your shadow under an LED light which does not utilize a reflector, you will see a darker shadow with defined edges because LEDs provide much more directional light.

When choosing between LED lights vs CFL lights, it’s helpful to know how they differ. LED lights are widely used due to their energy efficiency and longevity. CFL lights, while also energy-saving and typically less expensive initially, have a shorter life and contain small amounts of mercury. In this article, we'll break down other differences […]

The direct light from LED strips can sometimes be harsh or uneven, creating unwanted shadows and glare. To enhance the quality of light and create a more ambient atmosphere, diffusing LED strips is an effective solution. In this article, we will look into 20+ common methods on how to diffuse LED strip at home as […]

Position a translucent material, like frosted glass or semi-transparent plastic, between the LED strip and the viewer. This will scatter the light and soften its appearance.

Applying adhesives or glues to diffuse LED strips involves attaching diffusion materials, frosted acrylic, paper, or fabric to the LED strips with the help of various adhesives to or around the LED strips to create a more even light output. This method can be quite effective if done correctly.

Silicone is also a common material for diffusing LED strips due to its various beneficial properties, which makes it a reliable choice for achieving high-quality, uniform illumination in lighting projects. Some applications of this material in LED strip diffusion are silicone diffuser sheets and silicone tubing.

You are in two minds about neon lights which can add personal style with unique custom-made lights or LED lights which are more durable, energy-efficient, and lower maintenance costs. In this comprehensive blog post, let’s explore the key differences between neon lights vs LED lights together and you no longer have to struggle to find […]

Tania is a UbiGro Sales Representative, with over 7 years of experience in product sales (specifically berries and avocados) covering all of North America and parts of South America. While in agriculture, Tania has cultivated strong relationships with growers and distributors, granting her a unique insight into both perspectives. That understanding, paired with her fierce dedication to results, drives her fun and fiery commitment to her craft. Tania is based in Gilroy, CA.

Thermoplastics are a versatile and effective material for diffusing LED strips, offering benefits such as uniform light diffusion, durability, and heat resistance. By cutting, shaping, and properly attaching thermoplastic sheets or tubes, you can achieve a high-quality diffusion effect. While they may be more costly and require precise handling, the performance and aesthetic benefits can make them a worthwhile choice for many lighting projects.

He serves as the principal investigator for UbiQD’s contract with NASA, focused on tailoring the solar spectrum for enhanced crop production for space missions. Dr. Bergren’s leadership experience includes serving on the board of directors for the New Mexico Energy Manufacturing Institute, focused on job creation in New Mexico’s energy, and related manufacturing community.

Conversely, when we see clouds in the sky that look white, this is because the water droplets in the sky are larger than the wavelengths of light so they capture and scatter all of the colors of the light spectrum, making them appear white. This type of natural light diffusion by clouds, referred to as “Mie Scattering” (named after German physicist Gustav Mie), is another example of light diffusion that can be mimicked in greenhouse lighting strategies to enhance plant growth by ensuring a balanced diffusion of light.

LED lights have revolutionized how we illuminate our world. But with their widespread adoption, a question lingers: Are LED lights safe for our health and the environment? This comprehensive guide will dive deep into the potential risks and benefits of LED technology, empowering you to make informed decisions about lighting your home and workplace. We’ll […]

You can spend time scouring the web and see images from LED grow light companies with their lights above a canopy of cannabis. When you take a closer look and compare to that of HID and HPS, you will instantly notice how dark the plants look underneath the top canopy due to shadowing.

While LEDs can reach high light levels with less power, they simply do not diffuse light or spread it uniformly on the canopy which can cause “hot spots” and uneven growth. This drawback is magnified by some of the higher output greenhouse-specific LEDs. Some LED companies even tout that their directional LEDs are optimal because HID reflectors “waste light by bouncing photons all over instead of concentrating them toward the canopy,” but as we just learned above, light diffusion is actually optimal for better photosynthesis – especially if you are utilizing lights for your sole light source in a room with reflective surfaces on the walls for optimal plant growth.

Plants have evolved for millions of years and are very efficient in utilizing the sun’s rays for photosynthesis. As we began cultivating plants for food, there was a long part of our history during which we only farmed and cultivated plants that grew naturally in our local environment. Today, as our population grows and concentrates in urban areas, there is an increasing demand to sustainably grow our food closer to our population centers. Greenhouse-controlled environment agriculture, with its advanced greenhouse lighting systems, is the best solution to serve this demand, ensuring optimal plant growth through precise light quality management.

Implementing woodcraft to diffuse LED strips involves using wooden elements to create a decorative and functional diffusion system. Wood can be used in various ways to diffuse light, from custom enclosures and panels to artistic designs. When combined with epoxy resin, this approach is perfect for crafting LED table lamps with visually appealing and functional lighting solutions that enhance any space with both light and artistic flair.

UbiGro brings this nanotechnology to greenhouses by not only altering the sun’s spectrum for optimal photosynthesis but also diffusing these photons in a greenhouse. UbiGro acts as a sun-activated layer of light in a greenhouse. It increases the proportion of the most photosynthetically active light in the spectrum (orange-red) as well as mixing up sunlight’s directionality to create a more diffuse light environment for plants.

Installing the LED strip on a reflective surface is by far the simplest technique to help spread the light before it passes through an available diffuser like a mirror. This can be particularly effective in creating even illumination.

Frosted tubes or pipes are typically made of materials like acrylic or polycarbonate, which are treated to diffuse light and reduce glare. Encasing the LED strip inside a frosted plastic or glass tube can help to distribute the light more evenly around the circumference, reducing direct light spots.

Recent studies have shown that uniform distribution of light caused by diffusion, a key aspect of greenhouse lighting, can increase overall photosynthesis and production for optimal plant growth. A study in 2015 by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences stated: “Diffuse light improves spatial light distribution in the crop canopy, thereby stimulating crop photosynthesis; the more uniform horizontal light distribution within the canopy plays the most important role for this effect in greenhouse lighting. Diffuse light also lessens the variation of the temporal light distribution at any specific point in the canopy.” This study utilized glass greenhouse glazing with high light diffusion and maintained high light transmission for optimal plant growth.

LED lights can brighten up any space, but to keep them shining without a hitch, knowing the battery capacity just right is key. So, how to calculate battery size for LED lights? The simple formula is:  Battery capacity (Ah) = (LED power (W) × Usage time (hours)) / Battery voltage (V) For example, with a […]

Sanded plastic works by scattering the light as it passes through, which helps to reduce harshness and eliminate hotspots. The method aims at sanding a clear plastic sheet or surface to create a frosted effect, then placing it in front of the LED strip for diffusion.

I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

But light distribution, achieved through control of greenhouse light diffusion, is often overlooked when discussing light quality for plants. Light quality should not only be thought of as light spectrum but also should include diffusion. From sunlight to supplemental lighting, let’s take a look at greenhouse light diffusion and its critical role in optimizing plant growth and maximizing the benefits in horticultural practices.

Using LED extrusion channels by placing the LED strip inside an aluminum channel with a frosted or milky plastic cover is the most effective way to diffuse LED strips, as it spreads the light evenly, reduces hotspots, and creates clean, professionally finished LED lighting.

This method focuses on applying a diffusing film or tape directly on the LED strip or on a clear cover placed over it to soften the light without adding much bulk and to achieve a softer, more even light from LED strips. This approach can help reduce hotspots, eliminate harsh shadows, and create a more pleasant and comfortable illumination.

Tyler brings 15 years of experience in Greenhouse production and facility management of a wide range of crops in multiple states to the UbiGro team. Based in Salinas, California. “Being a fourth-generation farmer, I look to improve and empower the grower, and with UbiGro, we can do just that.”

Eric Moody is UbiQD’s Director of UbiGro Sales. Eric has more than 6 years of experience in horticulture lighting industry, building relationships with greenhouse growers of all sizes and crops on optimal lighting for their growing operation, and most recently managed a North American sales team for PL Light Systems. Overall, Eric has been in sales leadership positions for more than 13 years. Eric brings with him a great understanding of the market and available technologies for growers, greenhouse facilities, and sales leadership. Reach Eric by phone at 541-490-6421 or by email at [email protected].

Diffused lighting living room

A lightbox, often referred to as a light panel or backlight box, helps diffuse the intense light from LED strips, resulting in a smooth and uniform illumination. Thus, installing the LED strip inside a lightbox with diffusing panels is a common method to promote better diffusion.

Another method on how to diffuse LED strips is increasing the distance of LED strips from a surface by simply positioning the LED strip further away from the surface it's illuminating. This method can be beneficial for various reasons, such as achieving better light diffusion, reducing glare, or creating specific lighting effects since the further the distance, the more the light will spread out before hitting the surface, reducing the appearance of individual LEDs.

As my example above stated, sunlight is naturally diffused in our atmosphere. Plants have learned to utilize direct sunlight with their large canopy leaves as well as utilizing diffused light (or indirect light) in their leaves on lower branches. Plants are very efficient at utilizing light for photosynthesis at all levels in the canopy. As we continue to grow more crops in greenhouses and, to a lesser extent, indoors, there are more studies being done to show the importance of ensuring there is good diffusion in these facilities to optimize light quality for greenhouse lighting. This is crucial for achieving optimal plant growth, highlighting the importance of light diffusion technology in enhancing the efficiency of photosynthesis throughout the plant canopy.

Eric Moody is UbiQD's Director of UbiGro Sales. Eric has more than 8 years of experience in the horticulture lighting industry, building relationships with greenhouse growers of all sizes and crops on optimal lighting for their growing operation, and most recently managed a North American sales team for PL Light Systems. Overall, Eric has been in sales leadership positions for more than 17 years. Eric brings with him a great understanding of the market and available technologies for growers, greenhouse facilities, and sales leadership.

Paper is by far the most budget-friendly material to diffuse LED strips. Whether you use plain bond paper, parchment paper, tissue paper, or frosted acetate, each type offers different levels of diffusion and durability. With a bit of creativity, you can easily wrap the paper around the LED strip and turn it into a customizable diffuser to create a soft and even illumination in a cost-effective manner.

With the onslaught of so many LED supplemental lighting companies coming into the industry, there have been many studies conducted on light quality from the light spectrum, including the advantages of greenhouse light diffusion. What is the right spectrum of light for your crop, and at what stage of growth is each spectrum appropriate? For example, is a higher proportion of orange and red light in the spectrum beneficial for flowering and fruit production? Additionally, understanding the benefits of light diffusion in this context can enhance crop yield and health.

Simply put, light diffusion in the context of greenhouse lighting is the scattering of light, which is crucial for optimal plant growth. It involves photons bouncing around in all directions, ensuring even exposure to plants. The opposite of diffuse light is directional light where photons travel all in the same direction, which can be less effective in a greenhouse setting aimed at promoting plant health. Think about standing under a large outdoor shelter when the sun is highest in the sky. If there was no diffusion of light at all, it would be very bright outside the shelter but totally dark under the shade of it. The reason we can still see well in the shade, and why plants can thrive under light diffusion, is the natural diffusion of sunlight by our atmosphere, and that sunlight bounces off objects and scatters into the shelter, mimicking an optimal light diffusion scenario for plant growth in greenhouses.

Utilizing ping pong balls to diffuse LED strips involves using the balls as a medium to soften and scatter the light emitted by the LED strips. This technique is employed to achieve a more even and aesthetically pleasing illumination effect.

Embed the LED strip in a groove or channel in the surface you’re lighting, and then cover it with a diffusing material. The recess helps in blending the light before it reaches the diffusing cover.

Some LED manufacturers are already embracing this truth as stated by Osram in the following HortiDaily article: “Current LED fixtures often have a Lambertian primary lens and no secondary optic, or a simple glass cover, which lead to hotspots with a high concentration of light directly under the luminaire. The result is areas with different intensities of illumination, causing inconsistent yields.” LED companies like Osram are looking for and developing ways to better diffuse light for this reason.

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For more information about the capabilities of the UbiGro film or questions about this post, reach out to Eric Moody directly at [email protected].

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Installing frosted glass blocks to diffuse LED strips can create an attractive, soft lighting effect since placing the LED strip behind frosted glass blocks can scatter the light as it passes through and diffuse it effectively.

As Chief Product Officer at UbiQD, Dr. Matt Bergren leads the company’s product development efforts, sales, and product manufacturing, including the company’s first commercial agriculture product, UbiGro. He plays a critical role in continuing the company’s path of technology development and vision of powering product innovations in agriculture, clean energy, and security.

Honeycomb grids are commonly used in lighting to control the direction of light and reduce glare, and they can be particularly effective in diffusing the harshness of LED strips. These grids can help scatter the light emitted by the LEDs in multiple directions, reducing glare and creating a diffused effect.

Hunter earned a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, before joining Los Alamos National Laboratory in the Chemistry Division. Ultimately the value proposition of UbiGro is about boosting crop yields and quality without the cost or energy impact of lighting. Hunter has more than fifty publications and patents, and more than 2000 total citations, h-index: 20. Hunter fundamentally believes that novel materials underpin every significant technology advancement, and he is focused on leveraging new materials to have a lasting and sustainable impact.

Jim Gideon is an UbiGro Sales Manager, with over 25 years of greenhouse industry sales experience covering all of North America. Previously Jim has worked for Green Tek, Plazit-Polygal, Texel, Cherry Creek, and Nexus. He is based in Montgomery, AL, and Jim believes that “light is everything to the grower.”

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Recently, we have begun a study with only 50% coverage of our UbiGro Inner 600 in a greenhouse, focusing on the benefits of light diffusion. An initial reaction when looking at the picture above is that some areas of the canopy will be utilizing the optimal red-shifted spectrum from UbiGro, while other areas in the gap are receiving the directional sunlight. Perhaps surprisingly, this is not the case. When intensity and spectral data are recorded from various positions in the canopy, we find that the light levels are uniform and the spectrum is consistent whether measured under UbiGro or in the open space between the suspended strips of UbiGro. Even at 50% coverage, UbiGro is diffusing sunlight so effectively that the enhanced spectrum is the same all across the canopy, as is the PAR light level, showcasing the benefits of light diffusion in a greenhouse setting.

Damon brings a wide range of experience in agriculture, materials science, spectroscopy, and small business. During his time in Prof. Angus Rockett’s research group at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), Hebert authored a doctoral thesis and multiple papers on the materials science of CIGS semiconductor materials, which is closely related to the materials developed at UbiQD. He also served as a consultant to Nanosolar, a CIGS nanocrystal solar cell manufacturing company. Hebert has industry experience having co-founded Dr. Jolly’s, a leading cultivation and distribution operation in Bend, OR.

Dr. Michael Burrows is UbiQd’s Vice President of Business Development. His educational background includes a Materials Science doctorate from the University of Delaware and an MBA from Duke University Fuqua School of Business. His career has specialized in the commercialization of novel electronic materials in venture-run programs for different industries including solar, biosensors, and the automotive industry. In both start-up and corporate environments, he has extensive experience in global market development, foraging supply chain partnerships, productization, and brand building. He is currently leading UbiQD’s partnership efforts in luminescent greenhouse technology, smart windows, and security ventures.

Higher-density LED strips are LED strips that have a greater number of LEDs per meter. This reduces the gaps between LEDs, making it easier to diffuse the light evenly. Therefore, these strips can be a great solution, providing a more even, less harsh illumination and uniform light output compared to lower-density options.

Overall, for those wondering how to diffuse LED strip lights effectively and looking to delve deeper into these diffusion projects, experimenting with different materials and methods will help to find the perfect solution. Each method with a different budget and skill level offers a unique way to soften the harshness of LED lights, transforming your space with beautifully softened, evenly distributed light that complements your décor and enhances your living environment.