High-efficiency sol-gel antireflection coatings for astronomical optics

James R. Stilburn

doi:10.1117/12.395454

16 August 2000 High-efficiency sol-gel antireflection coatings for astronomical optics

James R. Stilburn

Proceedings Volume 4008, Optical and IR Telescope Instrumentation and Detectors; (2000) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.395454
Event: Astronomical Telescopes and Instrumentation, 2000, Munich, Germany

Abstract

The antireflective properties of silica sol-gel coatings have been known for some time, and such coatings have bene used to reduce losses in the optical elements of high- powered lasers used in fusion experiments. Research at DAO has developed the technology to the pont where optical elements in three 4-meter class telescopes at CFHT, KPNO, and CTIO have benefitted from coatings made form high- efficiency sol-gel films. The process is attractive because it is simple to apply, is inexpensive, and is as effective as multi-layer vacuum-deposited coatings which it can replace. A description is given of the basic chemistry involved and the techniques used to apply the coatings. Techniques used to improve the durability of the films by hardening and waterproofing are described, as well as a two- layer coating in combination with magnesium fluoride.

Citation Download Citation

James R. Stilburn "High-efficiency sol-gel antireflection coatings for astronomical optics", Proc. SPIE 4008, Optical and IR Telescope Instrumentation and Detectors, (16 August 2000); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.395454

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