Design and Manufacture:
At vortex we can manufacture any custom anti-reflection coating between 300nm to 6000 nm. There are 2 main types of anti-reflection coatings that we manufacture, they are broadband anti-reflection coatings and V-coat AR’s (which includes multi-V-Coats) these are defined below. Click on the relevant wavelength range and AR type below for more information about our capabilities, applications and case study examples of our previous work.
Definitions:
Broadband anti-reflection (AR) coating (BBAR) is a type of optical coating that is designed to reduce reflections over a wide range of wavelengths. This makes broadband AR coatings particularly useful in applications where components need to perform efficiently across a broad spectrum of light.
V-coat anti-reflection (AR) coatings are anti reflection coatings that is optimised for one specific wavelength or a very narrow range. The term “V-coat” refers to the shape of the reflection spectrum produced by the coating (a V shape), with low central reflection level and higher reflection levels either side. V-Coats can also be combined to create multi V-Coats optimised for multiple wavelength points for example 532, 633 and 1064 nm.
All of our anti-reflection coatings are deposited using sputter deposition technology which typically has a process energy 1000 times higher than thermal evaporation. This means that all our coatings are highly durable in challenging environments as well as very stable with temperature change. More information about this can be found below.
More information about our capabilities can be found through the links below
Visible 300 - 700nm Broadband AR Coating
Infrared 700 - 6000nm Broadband AR Coating
Visible 300 - 700 nm V-Coat AR
Infrared 700 - 6000 nm V-Coat AR
Applications
Machine Vision:
In industrial automation and robotics, anti-reflection coatings are applied to cameras and sensors to improve image quality and accuracy in inspection and quality control processes.
Environmental Monitoring:
Used in optical sensors and analysers for detecting pollutants and measuring environmental parameters, enhancing measurement accuracy by reducing stray light.
Optical Systems:
Employed in various optical instruments like microscopes, spectrometers, and range finders to improve performance by maximising light transmission and minimising reflections.
Laser Systems:
Applied to lenses and mirrors in laser systems to enhance beam quality and efficiency by reducing losses from reflection.
Protective Lenses on Optical Devices:
Used in protective eyewear, safety goggles, protective covers and visors to improve visibility and reduce glare and protect sensitive optical components.
Aerospace and Defence:
In avionics and military optics, anti-reflection coatings improve the performance of heads-up displays (HUDs) and optical sights by enhancing clarity and reducing glare.
Medical Imaging:
In devices like endoscopes and imaging systems, anti-reflection coatings help improve image quality and facilitate better diagnostics.
Telecommunications:
Used in fibre optic connectors and lenses to ensure maximum light transmission and signal integrity.
Consumer Electronics:
Found in smart glasses, augmented reality (AR) devices, and virtual reality (VR) headsets to enhance user experience by reducing reflections and improving visibility.
Scientific Research:
In laboratory instruments, anti-reflection coatings improve precision in measurements and observations by minimising light interference.
Spluttering Vs Evaporation
Traditional Thermal Evaporation
- Voids in coating.
- Poor environmental performance.
- High shift with temperature change.
Open structure of traditionally evaporated coatings with gaps and voids.
Sputter Deposition
- Voids eliminated.
- Excellent environmental performance.
- Extremely low temperature shift.
Densely packed sputtered coating with no gaps
or voids.
Coating Durability
We carry out the following MIL-C-48497A tests on samples from every coating run to ensure all coatings are durable and will stand the test of time.
Adhesion Test:
The adhesion test is a guide as to how well the coating is bonded to the substrate. The test involves pressing ‘Scotch’ tape against the coating and then pulling it off, it should stay firmly attached and show no signs of removal.
Humidity Resistance Test:
The humidity resistance test assesses the performance of the coating in an atmosphere of 95% relative humidity for a 24 hour period. There should be no change in optical performance or physical integrity.
Mild Abrasion Test:
The mild abrasion test evaluates the resistance of the coating to surface wear. The filter is subjected to a dry rubbing cloth for 50 strokes. After a clean with acetone, there should be no evidence of marking visible when viewed with the naked eye.
Severe Abrasion Test:
The severe abrasion test is similar to the mild abrasion test but involves more aggressive abrasion conditions to simulate harsher wear scenarios. The coating is subjected to 10 strokes of abrasion with the Mil Spec abrader which is impregnated with grit. This test is particularly important for filters used in rugged environments or applications with high mechanical stress.
Cleanability Test:
The cleanability test ensures the filter can be cleaned with standard laboratory solvents such as propan-2-ol (IPA) and acetone. The coating should survive 10 minutes immersion in each solvent.
Water Solubility Test:
The filter is immersed in water for 24 hours and it should comfortably survive this with no signs of damage or delamination.