GLS538 538 nm Visible Light Absorbing Dye for Optical Filters and Photosensitive Systems

GLS538 is a high-purity visible light absorbing dye designed for wavelength-selective attenuation in the green light region. Measured in MA, it delivers a principal absorption maximum of λmax = 538 ± 2 nm, with a broad, highly efficient absorption band covering approximately 450–580 nm. It also exhibits excellent transmission in the red and near-infrared regions (> 600 nm).
Because of its specific absorption profile, minimal fluorescence, and excellent solvent compatibility, GLS538 operates effectively in two main fields:
- as an optical blocking agent for frequency-doubled Nd:YAG (532 nm) and green He-Ne (543 nm) lasers.
- as a photosensitive coupling agent (sensitizer) for UV-curable resins and photopolymer systems.
- Precise Green Light Blocking: Effectively attenuates 532 nm and 543 nm laser wavelengths for optical filters.
- High Sensitizing Efficiency: Functions as an excellent photosensitive coupler for resin curing and photo-imaging.
- Stable Optical Performance: Minimal fluorescence, making it ideal for Raman spectroscopy and analytical notch filters.
- Thermal & Light Stability: Heat resistant up to 230°C with reliable lightfastness for demanding industrial components.
Typical Specifications
- Absorption Peak: 538±2nm (in MA)
- Appearance: Deep army green solid
- Solubility: Soluble in MA; insoluble in most other common solvents
- Purity: ≥98%
- Moisture Content: ≤0.5%
- Heat Stability: Stable up to 230℃
- Sensitizing Efficiency: High, suitable for low-dosage applications
The dye is supplied as a deep army green solid. However, due to its strong absorption in the green light spectrum, the transmitted color of the dissolved solution or cured film usually presents as magenta or purplish-red. The final optical appearance depends on the specific concentration and the host matrix/substrate.
Key Applications
Laser Safety and Optical Filters
GLS538 targets the 520–550 nm green light spectrum. It can be evaluated as an absorbing additive for polymer-based laser safety eyewear, protective windows and shielding films designed to attenuate frequency-doubled Nd:YAG lasers (532 nm), green diode lasers (520–540 nm) and He-Ne green lasers (543 nm). Final laser safety components must be independently tested and certified.
Photosensitive Systems and UV Resins
Used as a high-efficiency photosensitive coupler and sensitizer, GLS538 enhances the spectral response of photosensitive materials to green light. This improves curing speed, image resolution and exposure efficiency in UV-curable resins, photopolymers and specialized industrial optical coatings.
Analytical and Spectroscopy Filters
Because it exhibits minimal fluorescence, GLS538 is highly suitable for spectroscopic applications. It can be formulated into emission filters for fluorescence microscopy or custom notch filters to reject 532 nm excitation light in Raman spectroscopy systems, allowing longer-wavelength signals to pass clearly.
Automotive and Display Optic (HUDs)
GLS538 can be incorporated into automotive head-up display (HUD) systems and specialized screen filters to manage green-yellow ambient light interference, thereby enhancing display contrast and visual clarity.
