Definition of infrared optic

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Photonics Dictionary

infrared optic: Infrared optics refer to optical components and systems designed to manipulate and control infrared (IR) light, which lies beyond the visible spectrum. These components are crucial for various applications in imaging, sensing, communication, and laser systems that operate in the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

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Some common types of infrared optics include:

Infrared lenses: These are optical components made from materials such as germanium, silicon, or chalcogenide glasses that are transparent to infrared wavelengths. Infrared lenses are used to focus, collimate, or diverge infrared light in imaging systems, thermal cameras, and laser systems.

Infrared filters: Infrared filters are optical elements that selectively transmit or block specific wavelengths of infrared light. They are used to remove unwanted infrared radiation from optical systems or to isolate specific infrared bands for imaging or spectroscopy applications.

Infrared windows: Infrared windows are transparent optical components that protect sensitive infrared detectors or sensors while allowing infrared radiation to pass through. They are commonly used in thermal imaging cameras, remote sensing systems, and industrial equipment.

Beam expanders and collimators: Beam expanders and collimators are optical systems designed to control the size and divergence of infrared laser beams. They are used in laser systems for applications such as laser machining, laser rangefinding, and laser communication.

Infrared prisms and mirrors: Prisms and mirrors made from materials such as germanium or silicon can be used to redirect, reflect, or split infrared light in optical systems. They are essential components in infrared spectroscopy, interferometry, and laser-based applications.

Infrared polarizers: Infrared polarizers are optical components that selectively transmit or block polarized infrared light. They are used in polarimetry, remote sensing, and laser systems to control the polarization state of infrared radiation.

Infrared diffractive optics: Diffractive optical elements (DOEs) designed for infrared wavelengths can manipulate infrared light through diffraction patterns, enabling complex optical functions such as beam shaping, beam splitting, and focusing.

These are just a few examples of the various types of infrared optics used in diverse applications across scientific, industrial, military, and medical fields. Infrared optics play a crucial role in enabling the detection, manipulation, and utilization of infrared radiation for a wide range of purposes.