Development of high performance optical systems frequently requires the use of an interferometer to detect imperfections and ensure high precision performance.  Most interferometers rely on beamsplitters as do other optical applications such as aeronautical and automotive heads up displays. However, an uncoated beamsplitter will often allow stray light to be reflected in addition to the beam reflecting off of the primary surface. To achieve the desired level of performance, beamsplitters are often used in conjunction with anti-reflective coatings to not only split a beam of light into two, but also to enhance the beamsplitter’s efficiency and prevent ghost reflections caused by stray light.

Environmental durability testing is essential for optical coatings prone to degrading due to exposure to humidity, temperature changes, abrasion and exposure to chemicals. To ensure the durability of optical coatings, testing should be conducted to simulate maximum exposure to these variables. In the display industry, humidity and temperature are particularly relevant because the light from bulbs used in certain devices can create extremely high temperatures after prolonged usage. Any coatings used on optical components, regardless of the substrate, must withstand these conditions to avoid interfering with lens performance, and ultimately the performance of the entire product.

Optical filters are generally used to selectively transmit or reject a narrow wavelength band or a range of wavelengths. VisiMax can provide a variety of optical light filters; one area of application is filter coatings. VisiMax Process Color Filters selectively and accurately pass the light of a small range of colors while reflecting other colors. Our heat-resistant dichroic filter coating technology produces durable interference filters that render light with precise spectral control.

As one of the most common types of optical coatings, anti-reflective coatings are typically used in various types of applications such as light fixtures, displays, and eyewear. Specifically, VisiClear Anti-Reflection Coatings from VisiMax are used in applications across a wide variety of industries and across the globe. One other notable application for anti-reflection coatings is Digital Light Projection (DLP) systems.