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DynaGlas & ThermaGlas Polycarbonate Panels Protect
Against Solar Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation
Exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation is becoming a major health concern. The adverse affects were once thought to be associated with solar UV radiation in the 270 to 320 nm (UV-B) range. However, in recent years it has become apparent that exposure to UV-A (320-400 nm) is also detrimental. In addition to skin cancer, premature aging has been associated with exposure to UV-A. DynaGlas and ThermaGlas sheets totally block out UV radiation in this portion of the spectrum.
Almost all the UV-A radiation is also blocked out. This almost total blockage of UV radiation can be observed in the figure below.
A comparison of the UV protection offered by DynaGlas and ThermaGlas and that offered by sunscreen Cream 15 is depicted in the graph above. Note that no barrier is as effective as DynaGlas and ThermaGlas sheet. Activity below DynaGlas and ThermaGlas will be more protected than that offered by proper application of sunscreen, though the latter is sufficient in almost all cases. The key word in the previous sentence is proper. Improperly applied sunscreen or forgetting to apply sun screen will result in undesirable levels of exposure. In addition, note that protection factors are computed on the basis of UV-B exposure. There is as yet no way to compute protection to UV-A exposure.
It should be noted that formulations are still being marketed which only block out UV-B. When playing or swimming below DynaGlas and ThermaGlas, protection is always complete. When swimming, there is no danger that the protection will be washed away.
In the last ten years, it also has been documented that UV exposure can also damage the eyes, specifically to the cornea. Wearing sunglasses manufactured from polycarbonate protects the eyes. However, most people remove their glasses when entering the pool. This is a factor for both public and private pools to consider when contemplating a choice of covering.
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