Metrology

Here at IDEX Optical Technologies, we maintain a comprehensive suite of world-class metrology capabilities to ensure product performance prior to shipment.   

Absorption

We operate Photothermal Common-Path Interferometers capable of high sensitivity measurements, measuring low absorption levels down to 0.1% or less.

Currently, absorption can be measured at 266, 532, 976, 1030, and 1070 nm.

Cavity Ringdown Measurement

We are the world’s leader in the manufacture of optics for cavity ringdown spectroscopy (CRDS) applications. The only reliable measurement of part-per-million level loss in these optics is a direct measurement of cavity ringdown times, so we offer this service at several common wavelengths with the ability to add more measurement wavelengths as needed.

Laser Damage

We have built a test bed for measuring the LIDT of optical components at 1064 and 532 nm under ns-domain pulsed laser fluence. Combined with a custom scanning microscope-based inspection system, we are driving the cutting-edge understanding of the relationship between micron-level coating defects and LIDT and using this to make the optics critical for the manufacture and operation of the highest power lasers currently being built.

Microscopy

We use state-of-the-art equipment for the inspection and measurement of surfaces using bright-field, dark-field, and differential contrast microscopes. Surface quality and roughness are quantitatively measured and recorded, enabling our capabilities for making the world’s best high-power optical components.

Spectral Metrology

We use a variety of tools to measure the spectral performance of all the optics we make. Spectrophotometers allow for measuring performance from the ultraviolet to the infrared, while single-wavelength and tunable laser sources (at a variety of wavelengths) allow for more demanding measurements of reflection, polarization extinction, and wavelength-dependent coating performance.

Surface Interferometry

We have multiple standard and specialized interferometers including:

• Standard interferometers for measuring various characteristics of flat and curved polished optical surfaces up to 200 mm in diameter
• IR wavelength specific interferometers able to measure optics up to diameter 10” diameter
• 4-Axis scanning point multi-wavelength interferometers for fast non-contact 3D automated measurements of surface form of aspheric optics up to 260 mm diameter
• Fizeau interferometers at 632 and 1550 nm to measure surface flatness, transmitted and reflected wavefronts
• Short-coherence length interferometers allows for single-surface measurements on highly parallel optics
• White-light and differential contrast interferometers provide detailed information of the characteristics of polished surfaces

Environmental Testing

Our critical optical components are able to withstand the rigors of the most severe environments in defense and industrial applications. All tests, where applicable, are carried out per MIL or ISO specifications and on a representative witness piece coated in the same batch.

• Static Humidity Test

  A standard test typically performed over 24 hours in 98% relative humidity at 49°C. This can be varied for customer specific requests. For hard carbon coatings and STAR coatings, this test would be performed for 7 and 10 days, respectively.

• Cycling Humidity Test

  This test is only performed by specific request from a customer. Although typically performed at 98% relative humidity between 35°C and 65°C, this test can also be performed at other temperatures and relative humidity by request.

• Salt Solution Test

  A standard test typically performed over 24 hours. By customer request, this can be extended up to 7 days.

• Salt Spray (Fog) Test

  This test is typically performed over 24 hours at 47°C. By customer request, this can be extended up to 90 days.

• Temperature Test

  A standard test which cycles between hot and cold temperatures, typically between -62°C and + 71°C for 5 hours each. The temperature and duration can be varied to a customer's specific requirements. We also have the capability to perform thermal shock tests upon request.

• Abrasion Test

  A standard test varying from moderate abrasion with cheesecloth to severe abrasion with an eraser at a known pressure. Other abrasion tests that can be carried out include sand abrasion and windscreen wiper abrasion.

• Adhesion Test

  A standard test performed using adhesive tape to a known specification.

• Solubility & Cleanability Test

  This test is performed only by specific request from a customer. Typical chemicals used include acetone, IPA, or AG101.

• Chemical Degradation Test

  This test is performed only by specific request from a customer. A coated witness sample would be subjected to chemical attack using customer specified chemicals.

• Shock & Vibration Test

  This testing is used to simulate the worst care handling and shipping environments of mounted components and complex optical systems to the limits of lifetime exposure. This testing protocol assures products delivered are robust.