Obscuration of the view through glass can be achieved either in the body or on the surface of the glass. Obscuration may be required for reasons other than modifying the quality of view (for example, screen printing for solar control), but such applications are dealt with in other indexes.

Various materials are used to produce body effects, such as micro-louvres in a laminate.

Surface based obscuration techniques usually rely on modifying reflections and/or transmissions or introducing surface scattering. They include:

Surface Patterned Glass

Reflection and diffusion, in combination, are present in surface patterned glass products. The depth, size and shape of the pattern largely determine the magnitude and direction of reflection. The surface finish determines the degree of diffusion. The interplay between diffusion and reflection influences the degree of 'sparkle' (by specular reflection) and obscuration.

Patterned glass usually transmits only slightly less light than clear glass. The more diffusing the glass, the more the directional properties of light transmitted by the glass will be diminished, and the more likely it might become a glare source, when its whole surface may appear bright.

Surface Treatments

Sand blasting and acid etching are examples of surface treatments. They produce uniform, relatively matt appearances and surface reflection properties that approach those of a perfect diffuser. The appearance of a surface treated glass is influenced by the relative level of illuminance on either side of the glass. Whilst this appearance is mainly for decoration, such materials can also be graded for their obscuration

Patterned glass usually transmits only slightly less light than clear glass. The more diffusing the glass, the more the directional properties of light transmitted by the glass will be diminished, and the more likely it might become a glare source, when its whole surface may appear bright.

Surface Printing

Surface printing can be typically by screen printed dots, lines or meshes. These can contain fine detail which, when viewed from a distance, produces a light veiling effect, like a net curtain. This veiling effect still allows the view to be perceived.