9.6. Dilate

9.6.1. Overview

Figure 17.187. Dilate

Original image

Filter “Dilate” applied

This filter widens and enhances bright areas of the active layer or selection.

For every image pixel, it brings the pixel Value (luminosity) into line with the upper value (the brightest) of the 8 neighboring pixels (3x3 matrix). So, a bright pixel is added around bright areas. An isolated pixel on a brighter background will be deleted. A larger bright area will dilate by one pixel in all directions.

On complex images, bright areas are widened and enhanced the same, and somewhat pixellated.

On a solid background, this filter can delete noise:

Figure 17.188. “Dilate” example

9.6.2. Activating the filter

This filter is found in the image window menu under Filters → Generic → Dilate.

9.6.3. Examples

Figure 17.189. Dilate neon effect