Characteristics of electromagnetic radiation

LED lighting for museums and galleries: the difference between light, UV radiation and IR radiation.

Illuminating with halogen lamps

If the spectrum of tungsten halogen lamps used in museums and galleries up until now is considered, it becomes clear that this also contains components in the UV and IR ranges, in contrast to the LED spectrum. In addition to fading from excessive exposure to light, UV radiation may also weaken the structure of such things as textiles and wood, may cause chalking on paints and plastics and result in the yellowing of paper. IR radiation on the other hand accelerates the chemical, biological and mechanical disintegration of thermally unstable materials such as wood.

Illuminating with LED lamps

Light is the range of the electromagnetic spectrum between 380nm and 780nm that is visible to the human eye. UV radiation with wavelengths less than 380nm and infrared radiation with wavelengths greater than 780nm border the visible range. The spectrum of LEDs used by ERCO is limited to this visible spectral range. Possible damage caused to exhibits by UV and IR radiation therefore no longer pose a restriction to exhibition organisers. Only excessive exposure may still cause the fading of colours.