Linear Polarizers
Film Linear Polarizers
Acrylic Linear Polarizers
Glass Linear Polarizers
Near IR (Infrared) Linear Polarizers
UV (Ultra Violet) Linear Polarizers
Filter all Linear Polarizers using the category images and titles above or the category filter below.
Transmission | API Product # | Effective Wavelength | Substrate | Crossed Transmission | Extinction Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32% | (.111", multiple thicknesses available) | 400-700nm | Glass | 0.002% | 9,500:1 |
| 38% | (.105", multiple thicknesses available) | 400-700nm | Glass | 0.017% | 2,200:1 |
| 39% | (.107", multiple thicknesses available) | 400-700nm | Glass | 0.01% | 8,000:1 |
| 42% | (.104", multiple thicknesses available) | 400-700nm | Glass | 0.004% | 12,500:1 |
API's Linear Polarizers
API offers linear polarizers and polarizing filters for a broad range of applications in the electronics, photographic, scientific, and industrial markets. We can also laminate our filters to acrylic and glass. For custom linear polarizer applications, we offer research, development, and small quantity test runs to meet your needs.
- Visible light, near IR and UV spectrum
- Multiple colors and transmission values
- Available in film and acrylic or glass laminations
- In-stock or custom shapes and sizes
- Optional anti-reflective, anti-glare hard coatings, and clear hard coatings
- Custom linear polarizing optical filters
Want to learn more? See how polarization works.
Linear Polarizer Film — FAQ
What's the difference between American Polarizers Inc’s 32% and 42% transmission linear polarizer?
Interestingly, the crossed transmission of our AP32-015T is .002% and the AP42-004T is only very slightly more at .004%. Ironically, because of the higher transmission of the 42% polarizer and its excellent crossed transmission, the extinction ratio is better for the 42% product than for the 32% one. In summary, our AP32-015T and the AP42-004T are both pretty special products that are made to cater to our customers varied single pass and crossed transmission needs.
https://www.apioptics.com/product/ap32-015t/
https://www.apioptics.com/product/ap42-004t/
Can linear polarizer film be used outdoors or in high-temperature environments?
API’s standard linear polarizer films can degrade under prolonged UV exposure, high humidity, and high heat, which affects both optical performance and lifespan. For outdoor or high-temperature applications, a high-temperature UV stabilized polarizer film is recommended such as our dye type AP39DT-006T, as this is specifically engineered to maintain polarization efficiency and durability under extended sun exposure and elevated humidity and operating temperatures. Always check the film’s rated temperature range before specifying it for an outdoor or automotive application. Additional environmental protection can be obtained by adding the film to glass laminates for added durability.
What's the difference between linear and circular polarizer film, and which one do I need?
Linear polarizer film transmits light along a single axis and is typically used for glare reduction, contrast enhancement, and machine vision applications. Circular polarizer film adds a quarter-wave retarder layer, converting linearly polarized light into circular polarization — this is essential for applications like camera lens filters (to avoid color shifts when rotating the polarizer) and certain display technologies that require the glare reduction properties of a circular polarizer. If your application involves rotating optics, reflected glare reduction for a display, or needs to avoid interference patterns, a circular polarizer film, such as APNCP37-010T-STD, is usually the better fit. For straightforward glare or contrast control, a linear polarizer, such as AP38-006T, is typically sufficient and more cost-effective. As with our other products, acrylic and glass laminations can be added for extra durability and optical performance.
https://www.apioptics.com/product/ap38-006t/
https://www.apioptics.com/product/apncp37-010t-std/