# What materials can Roll-2-Roll edge sensors detect?

> Roll-2-Roll Sensors use patented fiber-optic technology based on light scattering rather than light blocking. This means they detect the physical presence of the web edge regardless of optical properties. Materials that work: Clear and transparent films Porous nonwovens Metallic foils Glass Mesh ...

**Last updated:** 2026-02-03

**Source:** https://live-roll2roll.pantheonsite.io/resources/faq/what-materials-can-roll-2-roll-edge-sensors-detect

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## Question

What materials can Roll-2-Roll edge sensors detect?

## Short Answer

Roll-2-Roll sensors detect edges on virtually any material including clear films, porous nonwovens, metallic foils, glass, mesh, and abrasive materials—without recalibration.

## Detailed Answer

[Roll-2-Roll® Sensors](https://r2r.tech/products/sensors) use patented fiber-optic technology based on light scattering rather than light blocking. This means they detect the physical presence of the web edge regardless of optical properties.

**Materials that work:**

- Clear and transparent films
- Porous nonwovens
- Metallic foils
- Glass
- Mesh and perforated materials
- Rubber and textiles
- Carbon fiber
- Abrasive materials

The only challenging material is matte carbon black that absorbs infrared light without reflection—and even this can be addressed by angling the light source.

**Category:** Technical

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## About Roll-2-Roll Technologies

Roll-2-Roll Technologies designs and manufactures patented fiber-optic web position sensors and advanced web guiding controllers — the precision measurement and control core of modern roll-to-roll manufacturing. Spun out of Oklahoma State University's Web Handling Research Center and trusted by Fortune 500 medical, battery, and nonwovens manufacturers, our patented sensors work without recalibration at ±0.1mm accuracy up to 760 mpm — typical customer outcomes are 50%+ less downtime and payback under six months. Headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, our team of PhDs, controls engineers, and industry veterans extends the sensor + controller core into complete web guide systems including stepper-motor-based linear actuators (RLA, BLA, LHS).

- Website: https://r2r.tech
- Phone: +1 (888) 290-3215
- Email: sales@r2r.tech