Optical Coatings Optical coatings are thin layers of dielectric or metallic materials that are deposited onto optical components, such as lenses, mirrors, and filters, to control the transmission, reflection, or absorption of light within a specific range of wavelengths from ultraviolet (UV) to infrared (IR). These coatings are designed to manipulate the behavior of light by reducing glare, enhancing contrast, or improving overall optical performance. Optical coatings are typically composed of multiple thin layers of dielectric materials with varying refractive indices, which are carefully selected and stacked to achieve the desired optical properties. The thickness of these layers is typically in the range of tens to hundreds of nanometers. Therefore, the accuracy of the deposition technologies used to apply these coatings is crucial to achieve reproducible results over the entire surface of the optical component. Read more
Liquid Repellancy Fluorinated durable water repellent (DWR) finishes have been widely used in various applications, such as outdoor clothing and filter media, due to their effectiveness in providing water repellency. However, these finishes often contain perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a group of chemicals known for their environmental risks and potential adverse health effects. As a response to the environmental concerns associated with PFAS, the European Union has implemented regulations under the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) framework to phase out the use of long-chain C8 and C6 PFAS in various applications, including DWR finishes. Plasma technology has emerged as an eco-friendly and innovative alternative for water repellent technologies that are free from PFAS. Read more
Metallization Vacuum deposition has emerged as a viable alternative to galvanic chrome plating processes for thin metal layer deposition on various materials. This is particularly due to environmental concerns associated with hexavalent chromium (Cr6+) used in traditional chrome plating processes. PVD techniques, such as sputtering and evaporation, can be used to deposit protected metal layers onto polymer materials without the use of hazardous chemicals, such as hexavalent chromium. Vacuum deposition offers several advantages as an alternative to chrome plating, including reduced environmental impact, elimination of hazardous chemicals, and precise control over the thickness and properties of the deposited metal layers. Read more
Transparent Conductive Oxides (TCOs) Increasing demand for interactive screens and the integration of sensors and electronic components into "SMART" products, such as displays, touch panels, solar cells, and low-emissivity (low-E) glass, has led to a growing need for transparent electrodes with excellent electrical conductivity and optical transparency. Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) has been widely used as a transparent conductive oxide due to its high electrical conductivity and optical transparency. It is commonly deposited using sputtering techniques onto heated substrates. Aluminum-doped Zinc Oxide (AZO) has gained attention as an attractive and economical alternative to ITO. AZO films can, however, exhibit reduced electrical conductivity when exposed to high humidity environments, which can affect performance and reliability in certain applications. Additional measures, such as encapsulation or protective coatings, may therefore be required to enhance the humidity resistance of AZO-based electrodes. Read more
