Optical coatings affect the ability of optical elements to transmit and/or reflect light. Thin-film optical coating deposition on optical elements can impart different behaviors, such as anti-reflection for lenses and high reflection for mirrors. Optical coating materials containing silicon and other metal atoms can be used in a wide range of optical applications. The use of silicone gels and elastomers as cladding or sealing materials takes advantage of their high light transmission rates. These materials can be modified to have refractive indices that match the substrate. For example, UV-curable acrylate-modified silicones can provide index matching for polymethacrylates. Similarly, thermally curable silicone materials can be cured onto surfaces to provide benefits such as scratch and weather resistance. Epoxy-modified silicone systems can be cured on polycarbonate to impart scratch resistance.
In addition, metal organic compounds can be used in vapor deposition techniques to apply coatings on surfaces. Silicones and silanes can be applied to optical fibers to provide lubricity, moisture protection and help reduce breakage and surface debris.
Post time: Mar-30-2024