Abstract: The invention relates to optical light diffusers for use with point light sources, such as LED lighting. The optical diffusers achieve an optimum balance of light transmission and hiding power. The optical light diffuser is a transparent plastic matrix, such as Plexiglas® resin from Arkema Inc., having organic particles dispersed within the matrix. The particles are crosslinked beads having specific particle sizes and loading. Different beads can be combined to provide added properties such as a textured surface, and to optimize hiding power and light transmission. The invention also relates to a luminous device containing at least one light-emitting diode and a cover made of the optical light diffuser. The invention further relates to a method for assessing hiding power.

Abstract: Optically transparent, conductive polymer compositions and methods for making them are claimed. These conductive polymer compositions comprise an oxidized 3,4-ethylenedioxythiopene polymer, a polysulfonated styrene polymer, single wall carbon nanotubes and/or metallic nanoparticles. The conductive polymer compositions can include both single wall carbon nanotubes and metallic nanoparticles. The conductive polymer compositions have a sheet resistance of less than about 200 Ohms/square, a conductivity of greater than about 300 siemens/cm, and a visible light (380-800 nm) transmission level of greater than about 50%, preferably greater than about 85% and most preferably greater than about 90% (when corrected for substrate). The conductive polymer compositions comprising single wall carbon nanotubes are made by mixing the oxidized 3,4-ethylenedioxythiopene polymer and polysulfonated styrene polymer with single wall carbon nanotubes and then sonicating the mixture.