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Looking for a non-reflective black paint

I am looking for a non-reflective black paint that is commercially available (and affordable) to paint interior walls in photography studios and movie theaters. Reflection of visible light (e.g. flashes) should be minimal.

Roger Walk
manufacturing engineer - Chesterfield, Virginia, USA
November 101 2011

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What you are looking for is a "flat" black and not a matte black.
Most paint companies make it, but it is not in great demand, so your local paint store may have to get it in for you.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida
First of two simultaneous responses -- November 14, 2011

Have you considered those paints that let you turn a wall into a chalkboard?

Ciaron Murphy
Aerospace - South Wales, UK
Second of two simultaneous responses -- November 15, 2011

The 'flat' black paints in local shops reflect approx. 2-3% of light, which is far too much for the desired application. I am looking for paint with less than 1% white light reflection.

Roger Walk
- Chesterfield, Virginia, US
November 16, 2011

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Hi, Roger.

I think you already know that expensive paints are available that will meet your reflectance requirement (because you originally posted against letter 1670 where they are discussed), but you are seeking something inexpensive that does the same. I could be wrong but I don't think you will find it because the technology for achieving low reflectance is different and more expensive than that of inexpensive off-the-shelf paint -- but good luck and please advise us if you find it.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.
November 16, 2011

Sorry! Finishing.com is temporarily Read-Only.
Ted Mooney is retiring but I have several offers to take it over.
We're working hard to make sure we find it the best new home.

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