An assessment of Saunderson corrections to the diffuse reflectance of paint films

Abstract

We revise basic concepts behind the surface correction terms to the diffuse reflectance of a paint coating and its measurement with an integrating sphere. We question the validity of using the Fresnel relationships to calculate the surface reflectance terms in the case of paint films. Results of measurements on a white paint covered with an index-matched transparent slab are presented. From these results we infer the internal diffuse reflectance of the surface and obtain noticeable discrepancies from the prediction of Fresnel relationships.