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Bristol Instruments, Inc. - 872 Series LWM 10/24 LB
Photonics Dictionary

Rugate filters

A Rugate filter is a type of optical filter that is designed to have a continuously varying refractive index profile throughout its thickness, rather than the discrete layers found in traditional multilayer interference filters. This unique design allows Rugate filters to achieve very precise control over their spectral transmission or reflection properties.

In Rugate filters, the refractive index of the material changes smoothly and continuously along the thickness of the filter, typically following a sinusoidal or similar profile. By carefully designing this refractive index profile, Rugate filters can achieve various optical functions, such as transmitting or reflecting specific wavelengths of light with high precision, while suppressing others.

One of the key advantages of Rugate filters is their ability to create extremely narrow spectral features, such as sharp passbands or stopbands, which are difficult to achieve with traditional multilayer interference filters. This makes Rugate filters particularly useful in applications requiring high spectral selectivity, such as optical communications, spectroscopy, laser systems, and optical sensors.

Rugate filters are used in a wide range of optical devices and systems, including optical coatings, laser cavities, optical sensors, and spectrometers, where precise control over the spectral properties of light is critical.
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