Improved dielectric films for multilayer coatings and mirror protection

Abstract

This paper presents data on the optical properties of evaporated films of silicon oxide, aluminium oxide, thorium oxide, and zirconium oxide in the wavelength region from 0.2 μ. to 1. 6 μ. The films were prepared by direct heating both in vacuum and in the presence of oxygen, and by electron bombardment. Some of their more important applications such as: protected front surface mirrors, antireflection coatings, reflection filters, and coatings for controlling the temperature of satellites in outer space, are described.