Blackout Acrylic Coating

Blackout coatings apply 3–5 layers of pigmented acrylic (carbon black or titanium dioxide at 15–25% pigment loading) onto woven polyester or cotton substrates using knife-over-roll at 40–80 g/m² per pass. Total add-on of 150–300 g/m² achieves light transmission below 0.01% (Class 1 blackout per EN 14501). Sandwich constructions alternate black and white layers to prevent light bleedthrough and heat buildup. Acrylic binder Tg of -10°C to +5°C maintains flexibility from -20°C to +80°C. FR grades incorporating alumina trihydrate and antimony oxide meet EN 13773 flame retardancy. Blackout fabric cost is $1.50–4.00/m² for hospitality and commercial interiors.