Abstract: Transparent selective optical absorption filters of improved stability to ambient solar light and radiation in the near UV range are provided by incorporating metallized tetra ((meso)-5-methyl-2-thiophene) phorphines, platinum (5-bromo octaethylporphine) or mixtures thereof into suitable filter matrices such as plastic, glass or the like. Optical filters absorbing in narrow radiation bands and useful as transparent protective laser shields are provided.

Abstract: A laser shield which absorbs narrow band radiation of a laser beam while transmitting broad band radiation encompassing the narrow band is provided by diffusing a layer of a chromophore selected from one or more porphyrin complexes which have been modified by metals forming a metallo-porphyrin complex. The chromophore or chromophores are combined with a solvent which are mixed for dissolving the chromophores in the solvent to provide a dissolved chromophore solution. A transparent matrix material is dipped or otherwise brought into contact with the solution for a predetermined time period at a predetermined temperature for diffusing the chromophore into the surface of the matrix material which has been softened by the solvent at the elevated temperature to thereby provide a layer of diffused chromophore which absorbs radiation in a narrow band corresponding to the characteristics of the chromophore while passing a substantial portion of all radiation applied thereto.