Infrared Anti-reflective (IR AR) coatings

Maximize IR transmission. Minimize reflection.

Andover IR AR Coatings

Maximizing IR Transmission Through Advanced Thin-Film Technology

Infrared Anti-Reflective (IR AR) coatings are precision-engineered optical coatings designed to minimize surface reflections and enhance light transmission across the infrared spectrum (0.75 - 14µm). These coatings play a critical role in thermal imaging systems, infrared cameras, night vision devices, and spectroscopy instruments where optimal energy throughput is essential.

Each IR AR coating is designed with three core performance factors:

  • Material Compatibility – Optimized for germanium, silicon, zinc selenide, chalcogenide glass, and other infrared materials.
  • Optical Performance – Engineered to reduce reflection to as low as 0.25% per surface, ensuring maximum transmission.
  • Environmental Durability – Resistant to temperature fluctuations, humidity, abrasion, and harsh operating conditions.

Andover Corporation utilizes advanced vacuum deposition techniques and IR-optimized materials to produce high-performance AR coatings. Our solutions range from single-layer designs for targeted infrared wavelengths to sophisticated broadband coatings offering ultra-low reflection across multiple IR bands.

IR AR Coating Technologies

IR AR coatings are engineered using two primary construction approaches, each offering distinct performance benefits. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the optimal coating for your infrared application:

Single-Layer Design

Consists of a precisely calculated quarter-wave thick layer optimized for specific IR wavelengths. This construction provides excellent performance at the design wavelength and offers the most cost-effective solution for applications requiring peak transmission at specific IR bands.

Multi-Layer Design

Utilizes multiple alternating layers of varying refractive indices and thicknesses. These sophisticated designs achieve broader spectral coverage and lower residual reflection, typically reducing reflection to less than 0.5% across extended IR ranges.

Infrared AR Coating Solutions

From standard single-layer to advanced broadband performance

Infrared optical systems require precise light transmission. Our infrared anti-reflective (AR) coatings minimize reflection losses across the entire infrared spectrum. Whether your application needs basic or ultra-low reflection, our durable and reliable coatings deliver. Choose from three specialized designs optimized for different infrared applications and performance needs, including temperature, humidity, and durability.

Standard IR AR Coating

Single-layer anti-reflective coating optimized for maximum transmission at specific IR wavelengths. Cost-effective solution for basic IR applications.
  • Wavelength Range 1-14µm (substrate dependent)
  • Residual Reflection ≤1.5% per surface
  • Temperature Range -40°C to +80°C
  • Humidity Resistance MIL-C-48497A
Cost-Effective
Single Wavelength
Standard Durability

High-Performance IR AR Coating

Advanced multi-layer design for maximum transmission and environmental stability. Engineered for demanding military, aerospace, and research applications.
  • Wavelength Range Custom (1-14µm)
  • Residual Reflection ≤0.25% per surface
  • Temperature Range -70°C to +200°C
  • Environmental MIL-STD-810G
Ultra-Low Reflection
Extreme Environment
Premium Performance

Broadband IR AR Coating

Multi-layer design providing enhanced transmission across wider IR spectral ranges. Ideal for thermal imaging and spectroscopy applications.
  • Wavelength Range 3-5µm or 8-12µm
  • Residual Reflection ≤0.5% average
  • Temperature Range -60°C to +120°C
  • Adhesion MIL-C-48497A
Extended Bandwidth
Enhanced Performance
Superior Durability

From Prototype to Production

Custom Fabrication and High-Volume Manufacturing

Our vertically integrated facility handles both specialized custom projects and large-scale production runs with consistent quality and short lead times.
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