Invisible Plastic Optics: High Performance Fluoropolymer Anti-Reflection Coatings

We demonstrate graded index nanoporous fluoropolymer anti-reflection (AR) coatings for plastic optics that enable <0.5% reflectance from acrylic plastic over the 0.4-2 µm wavelength range for incidence angles up to 40o. Coatings tailored for the visible spectrum yield <0.1 % luminous reflectance, effectively rendering double-side coated plastics invisible under room lighting conditions. Adhesion to most optical plastics, pliability that prevents cracking, outstanding chemical and environmental durability, and compatibility with commercial vacuum coating systems should enable this AR technology to find widespread practical use.