Partial Mirror

Partial mirrors, also known as beam splitters or semi-reflective mirrors, are optical devices used to split a beam of light into two or more separate beams. They are commonly used in various applications such as microscopy, interferometry, laser systems, and optical testing.

In the context of the supply class Optical Instruments, Test Equipment, Components And Accessories in the supply group Instruments And Laboratory Equipment, partial mirrors refer to the specific type of mirrors used in optical instruments and laboratory setups.

Partial mirrors are designed to reflect a portion of the incident light while transmitting the remaining portion. This property allows them to split a beam of light into two separate beams with different intensities. The reflected and transmitted beams can be used for different purposes, such as directing the reflected beam towards a detector or combining the transmitted beam with another beam.

These mirrors are typically made by depositing a thin layer of metal or dielectric material onto a glass or substrate surface. The thickness and composition of the coating determine the reflectivity and transmittance properties of the mirror.

Partial mirrors are available in various configurations, including plate beamsplitters, cube beamsplitters, and pellicle beamsplitters. Each configuration has its own advantages and is suitable for different applications.

Plate beamsplitters are flat, rectangular mirrors that split the incident beam by reflecting a portion and transmitting the rest. Cube beamsplitters consist of two right-angle prisms cemented together, with a partially reflective coating on the hypotenuse surface. Pellicle beamsplitters are thin, semi-transparent films stretched across a frame, allowing the incident light to pass through while reflecting a portion of it.

When selecting a partial mirror, factors such as the desired reflectivity, transmittance, wavelength range, and power handling capabilities should be considered. Additionally, the size, shape, and mounting options of the mirror should be compatible with the specific optical instrument or setup.

Overall, partial mirrors play a crucial role in optical instruments and laboratory equipment by enabling the manipulation and control of light beams for various applications in research, testing, and analysis.