What Substrates are Used for Dichroic Mirrors?

university wafer substrates

Undoped Sillicon Used as a Dichroic Mirror

A graduate student working in a THz spectroscopy group requested a quote for the following.

We are interested in a silicon wafer (ID 2272) for use as a dichroic mirror where it would reflect 800 nm light, and transmit broadband THz radiation. I"m emailing you to request an official quote for 1 wafer of with ID 2272. Please include an academic discount if it applies, and I"ve listed out address below. Please include a lead time on the quote as well.

Item #2272 - 100mm Undoped <100> >20,000 ohm-cm 500um DSP

Reference #19677 for specs and pricing.

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Undoped Germanium Wafers Used As A Dichroic Mirror

A biochemist requested a quote for the following.

I am looking to purchase your 2" double side polished Get window. Do you have infrared transmission data for a .5 mm wafer

I want to use your item 2479 DSP Undoped Germanium essentially as a dichroic mirror for Visible and Infrared light( I need reflect some light ~ 1100 nm and transmit from ~2.5-20 um). I'm just wondering if you have a transmission spectrum from ~ 600 nm to 20 um, or if you can tell me what the average transmission is below and above 1.2 um?

I only need a single wafer.

UniversityWafer, Inc. Quoted:

But we are afraid that without adding the film, the transmission could only reach 40-50. Is this ok for you? By the way what's the thickness do you need?

Reference #238226 for specs and pricing.

 

 

What are Dichroic Mirrors?

Dichroic mirrors, also known as dichroic filters or thin-film mirrors, are specialized optical mirrors designed to selectively transmit or reflect light based on its wavelength. They are commonly used in scientific, medical, and industrial applications where precise control of light is required.

Key Features

  1. Wavelength Selectivity:

    • Dichroic mirrors reflect certain wavelengths of light while allowing others to pass through.dichroic mirror in a scientific setup, showing how it reflects blue light while transmitting red light
    • For example, a mirror might reflect blue light (400–500 nm) and transmit red light (600–700 nm).

  2. Angle Sensitivity:

    • Their performance depends on the angle at which light strikes the mirror. A typical angle for optimal performance is 45°, but it can vary depending on the design.

  3. High Efficiency:

    • They have high reflectivity for specific wavelengths and high transmission for others, minimizing energy loss.

  4. Durability:

    • Dichroic mirrors are made by depositing multiple thin-film layers (dielectric coatings) onto a glass substrate. These coatings are durable and resistant to environmental factors like heat and humidity.

Applications

  1. Fluorescence Microscopy:

    • Used to separate excitation light from emitted fluorescence light, enhancing image clarity.

  2. Laser Systems:

    • Direct specific laser wavelengths while transmitting others, useful in beam-splitting and combining setups.

  3. Photography and Video:

    • Used in color separation and correction in cameras and projectors.

  4. Astronomy:

    • Employed in telescopes to filter specific wavelengths for imaging or analysis.

  5. Biotechnology:

    • Integral in devices like flow cytometers and DNA sequencers for spectral separation.

  6. Entertainment Lighting:

    • Used in stage lighting to create specific color effects.

Advantages

  • Precise wavelength control.
  • High transmission and reflection efficiency.
  • Stable and durable in harsh conditions.

Limitations

  • Performance is angle-dependent.
  • Can be expensive compared to standard mirrors.
  • May require careful handling to avoid damage to the thin-film coatings.

Let me know if you'd like details on their fabrication or use in specific applications!