Silicon Polarizing Beamsplitter Cubes For High Power, Mid-Infrared Lasers

REO, a leading manufacturer of high volume precision optical solutions, has introduced a unique range of silicon polarizing beamsplitter cubes for operation in the mid-infrared spectral range.  In particular, these optics offer an exceptional mix of broad bandwidth (2 µm to 6 µm) operation, high laser damage threshold, high transmission (>95%) and high extinction ratio (>100,000:1).  The extinction ratio can even be extended to greater than 1,000,000:1 over narrower spectral ranges. These polarizing beamsplitter cubes are available anywhere in the 1 mm to 75 mm size range. 

Laser damage threshold for these devices is limited only by the bulk material, and is typically in the 1.5 J/cm² range, (for a 75 ns pulse at 2.05 µm).  This high laser damage threshold level is achieved through the use of ion beam sputtered (IBS) coatings, together with assembly based on REO’s proprietary Activated Covalent Bonding (ACB) technology.  In particular, ACB eliminates all organics or glues from the beam path, thus avoiding internal optical absorption.  It produces a much stronger bond than any adhesive, and delivers lower transmitted wavefront distortion.  Also, the combination of IBS coating and ACB assembly results in exceptional environmental stability, which allows operation over an extremely wide temperature and humidity range, without any shift in spectral response.  It also makes these cubes mechanically durable, and insensitive to shock, vibration and high g‑forces.  As a result, these optics are suitable for use anywhere from cryogenic environments to industrial, military, and spaceborne applications. 

These polarizing beamsplitter cubes are primarily intended for use with mid-infrared coherent sources such as optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) and optical isolation for fiber lasers and quantum cascade lasers (QCLs).  They are well-suited to applications in IR countermeasures, remote sensing and industrial gas detection and analysis.  Moreover, a scalable manufacturing process makes them cost competitive, particularly in high production volumes.  

About REO

REO produces high precision thin film coatings, optics and opto-mechanical assemblies for the ultraviolet, visible and infrared. Located in Boulder, CO, the company primarily services medium to high volume OEMs including manufacturers of defense and aerospace systems, laser systems, semiconductor tools, medical systems, life sciences instrumentation and telecom equipment.  REO is a privately held company.  For more information, contact Mark Damery, Vice President and General Manager of Worldwide Sales, at  MarkD@reoinc.com, www.reoinc.com, or Susan Anway, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer at SueA@reoinc.com. 

SOURCE: REO