Introduction to high-reflective coatings

High reflective coatings are specialized thin-film layers designed to maximize reflectivity, often exceeding 99%, at specific wavelengths. They are commonly used in laser systems, optical instruments, and mirrors to reduce energy loss and enhance performance.

Dielectric High Reflective Coating:

Dielectric coatings are renowned for achieving extremely high reflectivity, often exceeding 99.8% at the specified wavelength. These coatings are typically used in single-wavelength laser cavities, where minimizing cavity loss at the central wavelength is crucial.

Notch Optics offers these coatings with central wavelengths ranging from 350 nm to 2000 nm, tailored to customer specifications. When choosing a suitable dielectric high reflective coating, it is important to consider the damage threshold requirements.

Dielectric High Reflective Coatings

Metallic High Reflective Coating:

Notch Optics offers high reflective metallic coatings made from Au, Ag, and Al, with reflectivity greater than 99.5% at 1064nm (Rs > 99.5%, Rp > 99.2%). While their reflectivity is slightly lower than dielectric high reflective coatings, metallic coatings provide consistent high reflection over a broader spectral range, covering the near UV, visible, and near IR. To prevent oxidation, these coatings are typically protected by a dielectric overcoat.

Metallic High Reflective Coating