Custom Protected Aluminum Coated Optical Mirror Reflective Lens for Optical System

This protected aluminum coated optical mirror is a high-performance reflective lens engineered for precision optical systems. It serves as a fundamental component for directing and managing light paths with high efficiency and long-term reliability. The mirror features a durable aluminum coating with a protective layer, making it superior to standard unprotected front-surface mirrors.

1. Material & Construction

• Reflective Coating: The core of the mirror is a thin, highly uniform layer of aluminum (Al) deposited onto a precision-polished substrate, typically glass or fused silica. Aluminum is chosen for its excellent reflectivity across a broad spectral range.

• Protective Layer: A critical feature is the transparent dielectric overcoat applied over the aluminum layer. This coating seals the delicate aluminum surface from physical contact and environmental factors, ensuring its performance is maintained.

• Substrate Options: Available with various substrate materials, including Borofloat Glass for general applications or Fused Silica for enhanced thermal stability and UV performance.

2. Key Properties & Characteristics

• Broadband Reflectivity: The aluminum coating provides consistent and high reflectivity from the ultraviolet (UV) through the visible and into the infrared (IR) spectra.

• Enhanced Durability: The protective overcoat makes the surface scratch-resistant and environmentally durable, allowing for careful cleaning and handling without degrading the reflective aluminum layer beneath.

• Oxidation Resistance: The protective layer effectively seals the aluminum, preventing oxidation and tarnishing that would otherwise cause a rapid drop in reflectivity over time.

3. Primary Function & Optical Performance
The primary function of this mirror is to precisely reflect and steer light within an optical assembly. Unlike refractive lenses that bend light, this reflective lens (mirror) redirects light beams with minimal loss of intensity. It is designed to maintain the integrity of the light beam's shape, polarization, and spectral content, which is crucial for the accuracy of the entire optical system.

4. Application & Uses
This type of protected mirror is essential in a wide range of demanding optical applications, including:

• Laser Systems: Used for beam steering, folding, and delivery in industrial, medical, and scientific lasers.

• Spectroscopy Instruments: Acts as a reflection component in spectrometers and analyzers where accurate light direction is critical.

• Imaging Systems: Integrated into telescopes, microscopes, and projection systems to direct light paths without chromatic aberration.

• Precision Metrology & R&D: Employed in interferometers, test set-ups, and other research equipment requiring reliable and stable reflectors.