How Coatings Are Used and Integrated into Optical Systems

doi:10.1117/3.548071.ch1

Book: Optical Coating Technology

Author(s): Philip W. Baumeister

Published: 2004

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.548071.ch1

Author Affiliations +

Abstract

This chapter is intended for both users and manufacturers of optical coatings. Although the former need not be familiar with multilayer design, it is nevertheless useful to be aware of how coatings are selected and to gain an overview of their capabilities. Figure 1-1 delineates functions of multilayer coatings, such as the reduction of reflectance at a surface, enhancement of its absorption or selective transmittance of some wavelengths in preference to others. Coatings also alter the state of polarization of a beam or divide it into several paths. Multilayer reflectors are widely used in laser cavities.