UV-IR Optical Coatings
The most common types of anti-reflection optical coatings are the UV and IR coatings. These coatings are designed to reduce the reflection from surfaces. This is how it works; whenever a ray of light moves from one medium to the other, a portion of it is reflected from the surface. This reflection causes issues such as reduction in image sharpness. But coatings are designed to reduce this reflection.
Coatings can also be used to enhance the potential of various optical and optoelectronic systems. They do this by optimizing light transmissions for single wavelengths or even broad spectrum. Optical coatings are simply thin films or layers of metal that are deposited on other substrates in order to make mirror surfaces. Various deposition techniques are used to apply the coatings to optical components. Each coated optical component is intended for use at specific wavelengths between the UV and far IR, hence the name UV and IR optical coatings. The materials and processes used in making various types of optical coatings will determine the level of reflectivity of the surface.
Aluminum coatings can be tuned to ultraviolet wavelengths whereas silver coatings can be used for near-infrared wavelengths. Other metals like gold can also be used to make high-end coatings used in various applications.
One of the most important considerations when choosing coatings is their durability. It’s important to ensure that the coatings provide years of service and will hold up to diverse environments. UV-IR coatings should be designed for specific wave bands and customized where appropriate.
It’s also important to invest in coatings that are useful in the level of temperature that is suitable for your application. Coatings should be designed to remain effective when used in high-temperature applications, that is, more than 600 °C as well as low-temperature applications, below 120 °C. The company that is manufacturing coatings for you should be able to design one that is effective for your application and has passed the required adhesion and abrasion tests.
UV-blocking coatings are often required in organic materials that are likely to degrade when exposed to extreme sunlight. They can be used to protect plastics and many other elements. They are able to prevent degradation while at the same time offering a very high surface conductivity.
Reflection specifications are also an important consideration when choosing UV-IR coatings. You need to be guaranteed that the coatings will be able to withstand the kind of environment that they will be exposed to. This includes elements like extreme temperatures and humidity. A reliable coating should provide the features needed to improve the performance of any given application.
When buying optical coatings, there are lots of manufacturers that you will come across who claim to offer the best products. It’s very important to choose the right optical coatings manufacturer for your customized applications. A reliable manufacturer will have all the required certifications and be able to deliver in terms of quality. Confirm from previous customers that the manufacturer keeps their word in terms of timely delivery and quality products.