Exicor systems are solving many issues for manufacturers and applicators of films. Exicor has been used to measure the in-plane and vertical (z axis) birefringence.

Most films are manufactured using a process where the material is pulled via rollers. The roller speed, film tension and temperature variation are factors that contribute to varying birefringence. Most applications require that the birefringence of the film remain homogeneous across the sample. Variations may be due to some processing issues that create residual birefringence. Differences in film thickness (intrinsic birefringence) can also cause issues with birefringence.

In laboratories, Exicor is used to measure sheets of this material. An operator will cut a sheet to size and place it on the stage. The Exicor software is set to measure the sample (typically at a 5mm step size) and the machine takes the measurements. The measurements can be evaluated for QC. In manufacturing, these systems can be placed “In-line” for continuous process control. Only Exicor systems have the speed and sensitivity needed to suit this application.

Measurements:

In many applications, Exicor has been used to understand the homogeneity of the birefringence pattern. By reducing the variation, companies save money by creating a consistent product.

How Exicor has assisted customers:

• Both magnitude and angle may contribute to issues in films.
• Customers can understand the homogeneity of their films and can use QC to change processing, saving the customer time and increasing yield.
• Data may be automatically fed into automated manufacturing systems in real time to allow changing processing parameters "on the fly".

Suggested Exicor Systems:
Exicor 150 AT
Exicor MT 
Spectroscopic Option