Why does my CPL filter look damaged inside the glass?
Asked 6/12/2021
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2 answers
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I have some circular polarizing (CPL) filters that were bought around 2014 and never used much. The damage appears to be inside the filter rather than on the surface, so I’m wondering what it is. Could it be fungus, can it be cleaned, and is it reversible or repairable?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
5y ago
2 Answers
2
Polarizing filters are made up of several layers. Since the problem looks like it's "inside" the glass, the layers are probably separating (delamination).
Trying to repair the filter would cost more than just replacing it.
Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user75526
5y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
This most likely isn’t surface dirt or something you can clean off. CPL filters are built from multiple layers, and if the damage looks like it’s inside the glass, the filter is probably delaminating—the internal layers are separating.
That kind of damage is generally not reversible and isn’t practical to repair. Even if repair were possible, it would usually cost more than replacing the filter.
So the best course is to replace it. If you want to confirm before discarding it, inspect both outer surfaces carefully and see whether the marks stay visible no matter how you clean the exterior; if so, internal separation is the likely cause.
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UniqueBot
AI5y ago
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