Labsphere Sheds Light on Sunscreen Standards at Health and Beauty Expo

UV-2000S measures UV transmittance of sun protection productsNorth Sutton, New Hampshire (July 15, 2008) – A new UV transmittance analyzer will be the highlight of Labsphere’s first exhibit at the Health and Beauty Exposition, September 9-11, 2008 at the Jacob Javits Center (New York, N.Y.). Visitors to Labsphere’s exhibit at booth 1151 will be able to see first-hand the capabilities of the company’s new UV-2000S, a benchtop R&D system designed to rapidly measure the spectral transmittance of sunscreen products, especially those with high protection factors SPF 50 and above.

HBA Show

For research and development of sunscreens and cosmetics formulated with sunscreen, the increased dynamic range and functionality of the UV-2000S meets new standards for in-vitro sun care product analysis put forth by COLIPA and Boots Star. The rugged bench top instrument quickly measures the diffuse transmittance of a product sample over the 250 nm – 450 nm ultraviolet wavelength range. A new dual beam spectrometer with xenon flash lamp accommodates accurate measurement of highly scattering samples. The sample positioning stage allows for multiple readings at different points on the slide for a more accurate reading.

The application software automatically converts measurement data to provide the Sun Protective Factor (SPF), UVA to UVB ratio, critical wavelength, Boot Star Rating, and UVA-PF (COLIPA Method). The platform allows users to view, archive, retrieve and export data for measurements on both bare substrates and product substrates. The software is structured to support evolving regional methods for analyzing product UVA Protection Factor (e.g., revised Boot Star, PA+ Method, UVAI/UV Ratio, etc.), meeting foreseeable changes and challenges in the dynamic sun protection industry.

For more information on Labsphere products and services, visit booth 1151 at the Health and Beauty Exposition, visit www.labsphere.com, or phone +1 (603) 927-4266.

Labsphere’s FS2 Flashlight Measurement System Evaluates Spectral Flux

Measure several properties of light output on LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamp assemblies
North Sutton, New Hampshire (July 2, 2008) – With new standards for flashlight measurement on the horizon, Labsphere has developed the FS2 Spectral Flux Measurement System to facilitate accurate spectroradiometric, photometric and colorimetric characterization.  These application-specific, turnkey systems evaluate lamp efficiency for flashlight development and manufacture in commercial, marine, military, head-wear, emergency roadside and outdoor equipment applications.

FS2 

The FS2 system assesses Total Spectral Flux (Watts/nm), Total Radiant Flux (Watts), Total Luminous Flux (lumens), Color (CCT), Lamp Performance vs. Time, Peak and Dominant Wavelength, Spectral Purity, Color Rendering Index (CRI), Chromaticity Coordinates and Half-Bandwidth.  The high dynamic range is suitable for a broad range of flashlights, including those with LED, tungsten, xenon and krypton lamps. 

The system’s integrating sphere, coated with Labsphere’s proprietary highly reflective diffuse Spectraflect®, delivers exceptional spatial integration, critical for uniform, repeatable and reproducible measurements of directional light sources.  Total Forward Spectral Flux measurements are possible with the easy access side mount port, and an optional internal mounting platform in the integrating sphere delivers total spectral flux measurement of flashlight lamps.

Substitution errors are corrected with an absorption correction lamp and a forward spectral flux standard is provided for user calibrations.  The lamp distribution further reduces spatial substitution errors.  The MtrX-Flashlight, Flashlight Spectral Flux Measurement Software provides a user-friendly, intuitive platform for calibrating the system and analyzing measurements. All measurement results are captured instantly with real time graphics and the ability to generate and export reports. 

Labsphere’s experienced engineering staff is able to specifically address the unique needs of each customer, designing a custom FS2 system for the type of flashlight application under study.