Optical Filter Thickness Variability
The thickness of an optical filter is not solely determined by its final optical properties, but can vary based on several factors:
Coating Design
Different designs can achieve similar optical properties with varying thicknesses
Multiple layers of different materials may be used
Layer thicknesses can range from thin to thick (10+ quarter-wave optical thickness)
Substrate Influence
Substrate material affects overall performance
Refractive index of substrate impacts coating requirements
Wavelength Considerations
Shorter wavelengths typically require thinner layers
Physical thickness of quarter-wave optical thickness (QWOT) varies with target wavelength
Performance Requirements
Specific optical properties influence design and thickness
High absorption in certain wavelengths may necessitate thicker coatings
Conslusion
while optical filters may have the same final result, their thickness can vary significantly depending on the coating design, substrate, and specific application requirements.