Roscolux is widely recognized as the most versatile range of color, correction and diffusion filters for entertainment lighting. Originally introduced in the United States, it is now available all around the globe. Roscolux is comprised of two types of body-colored plastic filters extruded polycarbonate and deep dyed polyester, both of which provide superior consistency and durability when installed in front of hot theatrical and film/TV fixtures.

Deep-Dyed Polyester Base

Over half of the color filters found in Roscolux are manufactured using Rosco’s unique deep-dyed technique. This process begins with a 48” (1.2m) wide roll of clear PET polyester that is passed through a heated dye bath. The bath causes the film to swell, expanding the polymer structure and allowing the dye molecules to penetrate into the base film. As the polymer contracts to its normal form, the dye is trapped below the surface.

Body-Colored Polycarbonate

The other half of the Roscolux line features Rosco’s distinctive body-colored extrusion process. Manufacturing these filters begins by combining powdered resin and dyes to create a concentrated color “pellet.” This concentrated colorant and additional clear resin are then fed into an extruder where they are blended together under intense pressure and heat. The mixture is then pushed through a die, which forms it into body-colored, 24” (60cm) wide film.

Color Stability

In any color filter, the colorants or dyes eventually migrate away from the hottest area, which causes fading and discoloration. The rate at which the filter fades is a function of the dye employed and the depth of penetration by the dye into the base material. When simply coated on the surface, the pigments can easily sublimate from the base into the air.  Because all of the colorants used to manufacture Roscolux filters are trapped inside the plastic, more extreme conditions are required to cause the dye particles to sublimate out of the film, making them more resistant to fading and color shifts.

Heat Resistance

Rosco’s high-temperature (HT) range of Roscolux color filters feature extremely high softening and melting points – making them an excellent choice for use on hot theatrical or film/TV lights.