NoWaistedSpace
Well-Known Member
This is about reflectors to collect, direct, and amplify the photons of light toward the canopy.
What is best? "White" or "Polished Aluminum" ( "mirror" finish)?
I just ran an experiment with a pc of sanded, #400-#1000 grit, Polished, Black Emery Polish, 6"x36" Aluminum plate.
I laid it in the direct sun(2PM). The PAR meter said the Sun was at around 2100 PAR.
Next, I focused the meter at the coinciding angle for maximum reflection.
The meter read a little over 2000 PAR. That is almost 99% reflection.
Added a 54mm Glass Lens and measured and increased PAR to right at 2300 PAR
I have not done a "White" surface this way.
My conclusion:
With DIY, adding a little "elbow" grease to your Al reflectors and "Heat Sinks" will increase your PPFD output . Remember, Aluminum is a "soft" metal, and is easily scratched.
What is best? "White" or "Polished Aluminum" ( "mirror" finish)?
I just ran an experiment with a pc of sanded, #400-#1000 grit, Polished, Black Emery Polish, 6"x36" Aluminum plate.
I laid it in the direct sun(2PM). The PAR meter said the Sun was at around 2100 PAR.
Next, I focused the meter at the coinciding angle for maximum reflection.
The meter read a little over 2000 PAR. That is almost 99% reflection.
Added a 54mm Glass Lens and measured and increased PAR to right at 2300 PAR
I have not done a "White" surface this way.
My conclusion:
With DIY, adding a little "elbow" grease to your Al reflectors and "Heat Sinks" will increase your PPFD output . Remember, Aluminum is a "soft" metal, and is easily scratched.
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