Overview:

Protected aluminum mirrors are widely used in optical systems for their broad reflectivity across the visible and near-infrared (NIR) spectra. These mirrors feature a protective coating that safeguards the aluminum reflective layer from oxidation and physical damage, ensuring long-term durability and consistent performance. Aluminum coatings are highly reflective, and the added protective layer enhances the mirror’s lifespan, particularly in challenging environments.

Key Features:

• High Reflectivity:

  • Ravg > 87% from 400 nm to 1200 nm:
    The protected aluminum coating provides an average reflectivity of over 87% across the broad wavelength range of 400 nm to 1200 nm, covering both visible and near-infrared light. This makes the mirror suitable for a wide range of applications, from general optics to laser systems.

• Protective Coating:
  The aluminum layer is safeguarded by a transparent protective coating, which prevents oxidation and surface degradation. This coating ensures the aluminum mirror retains its reflective properties over time, even in humid or chemically harsh environments.

• Durability:
  The protective coating also enhances the mirror’s resistance to mechanical wear and surface damage, making it a reliable choice for systems requiring long-term stability and minimal maintenance.

Specifications:

• Reflectivity:

  • Ravg > 87% across 400 – 1200 nm (visible and NIR spectrum)

• Coating Type:
  Protected aluminum coating with a durable protective overcoat, usually made from materials such as silicon dioxide (SiO₂) or magnesium fluoride (MgF₂) to ensure optical transparency and mechanical protection.

• Substrate Options:
  Common substrates include float glass, fused silica, or BK7, chosen for their mechanical stability and optical clarity.

• Surface Quality:
  60-40 scratch-dig (typical), ensuring high optical quality and minimal surface imperfections.

• Flatness:
  λ/4 at 632.8 nm, suitable for precision optical applications.

Applications:

• Visible and NIR Systems:
  The broad reflectivity of protected aluminum mirrors makes them ideal for optical systems that work in the visible and NIR ranges, such as telescopes, cameras, and laser systems.

• General Optical Applications:
  These mirrors are widely used in laboratory settings, scientific instruments, and general-purpose optical setups where durability and performance across a wide wavelength range are essential.

• Harsh Environments:
  The protective coating makes these mirrors suitable for use in environments prone to humidity, dust, and chemical exposure, such as outdoor optical systems, aerospace, and industrial applications.

• Low-Cost, High-Performance Mirrors:
  Compared to other types of optical coatings, protected aluminum offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for cost-sensitive applications without compromising reflectivity.

Customization Options:

• Size and Shape:
  Protected aluminum mirrors can be manufactured in custom sizes and shapes to meet the specific requirements of various optical systems.

• Special Coatings:
  Additional coatings or custom protective layers can be applied to further enhance reflectivity or durability, depending on the application needs.