Light diffusing films are currently widely used in many optical, lighting, and display applications. Many of the most efficient diffusers utilize engineered microstructures to effectively distribute the light in a desired manner. Most of these diffusing films are formed by either molding or casting a polymer against a mold surface having relief structures present to produce the appropriate structure on the film surface. These structures are usually made of non-elastomeric polymeric materials, such as polyacrylates, polystyrenes, polycarbonates and polyolefins.
A problem arises when the required diffusing microstructures are of a shape that it becomes fragile and thereby easily damaged by routine handling of the film in assembly processes. Minor surface rubs can result in permanent, visible scratches and abrasions on the diffusing film rendering it useless for many applications or at least cosmetically. Therefore, a need exists for an improved light diffusing film.