THz optical components

We offer a variety of optical components for use at far-infrared and mm/Terahertz wavelengths:

• Multi-mesh filters
• Anti-reflection coatings
• Polarising wire grids
• Optical vacuum windows
• Cones

Our Multi-mesh filter technology is unique and allows extremely precise wavelength selection. It has been developed over more than 30 years by our astronomical academic colleagues, and is now a cornerstone technology used in all major astronomical projects in the sub-millimetre and far-Infrared region of the spectrum for both ground and space-based applications. We are proud to be able to offer its extraordinary benefits to a wider scientific community. Low-pass, band-pass and a more restricted range of high-pass structures are available with transition frequencies ranging from 30 GHz (10 mm, or 1 cm^-1) to 30 THz (10 um, or 1 000 cm-1).

We offer two polariser technologies for the THz region. Free-standing wire grid polarisers are designed for frequencies up to 3 THz and lithographic polarisers for efficiency at higher frequencies. Both technologies may be used at both ambient and at cryogenic temperatures. 

Our surface coatings can be applied to a range of optical materials to generate prescribed transmission and reflection properties throughout the THz range. Anti-reflection coatings are applied to vacuum window materials such as quartz and sapphire. We also design coating schemes for quarter-wave and half wave-plates. 

We offer vacuum windows for the broad THz region. Standard materials include ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), quartz, sapphire and KRS-5.

Finally, we offer Winston cones; these are non-imaging light concentrating components and are usually used along with our detectors.