[Russell Burrows]

Any body using this stuff for DIY screens??


Thanks.


Russ.

 

[airscapes]

I looked into this and asked about it. I was told it would be next to impossible to get it even. After looking at a manufactured retro reflective screen surface under a micro scope I agree.

I even ordered some samples of a product used for making lettering for trucks and signs. That stuff did not work for screen use either.

 

[threed123]

The beads you can get tend to be too big for screen projection and tend to make the image smear (fuzzy) from what I've read in the past. Dalite uses micro-bead process for their High Power screen that does the right job for relatively low cost.

 

[Russell Burrows]

What size in microns are the Da lite beads??


I am noticing many new products using microbeads:

http://www.dcpindia.com/reflective.htm

 

[threed123]

I can't find any specs on the High Power,however, I know from past that the beads are embedded in a special emulsion that clings to vinyl and is washable. I think it's more than just beads, you have to have an suitable emulsion to evenly spread the beads across the screen surface. I'm guessing this emulsion would have to be transparent to avoid uneven light reflection and over a white vinyl surface for uniform color characteristics.


I encourage trying to to duplicate yourself, but get ready for lots of frustration. Mica angular reflective craft paints (and aluminum in some cases) mixed in white/grey wall paint and Minwax Polycrilic as described on this board are proven choices and work very well--without the need to experiment.

 

[airscapes]



Quote:
Originally Posted by Russell Burrows /forum/post/20808748


What size in microns are the Da lite beads??


I am noticing many new products using microbeads:

http://www.dcpindia.com/reflective.htm

Here are a couple of up close and personal photos of the dalite fabrics.

discontinued 2.8 and 2.4.. better to just buy the screen if this is what you want.

 

[threed123]

Excellent Doug. Note how the beads are about 1/3 exposed--very important.It would be very difficult to create an emulsion (paint--probably not, maybe a polyurethane) this thin without technology.

 

[MississippiMan]

The RR properties inherent on a DaLite HP Screen (...both good & bad...) can be effectively duplicated by using certain Silver Metallic paints that are partially masked with a translucent emulsion


DIY'ers have created some real "Beamers" with extremely narrow viewing cones...however most of such screens were intended for pretty low lumen PJs ensconced on narrow rooms with limited seating.


You can find many materials that have similar properties, but very few that will not bounce the PJs reflection back at you like a searchlight reflecting off a Mirror.