MidOpt announce their latest LongPass filter, the LP8000 Germanium Window has a DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating that is abrasion-resistant and can withstand harsh environments. It has a 7.5–12.5 micron useful range and is an ideal protective window for thermal camera enclosures. It also has an anti-reflection coating to maximise transmission with thermal imaging in the LWIR (long-wave infrared).
Germanium is produced in single or polycrystalline form. It is a vital element used for semiconductors and infrared (IR) optical components. Germanium is also widely used as a substrate in optical filters for manufacturing a versatile and durable front optic.
The LP8000 is designed to be resistant to corrosion, chemicals, alkalis and most acids. Custom sizes are available, up to 101mm in diameter. Like most MidOpt filters, the LP8000 is manufactured using StablEDGE® technology, making it far less susceptible to the effects of angular shifting, seen when optical filters are placed in front of short focal length (<12mm) camera lenses.
The LP8000 anti-reflection (A/R) coating
When a ray of light passes through a glass surface, a portion of the light is reflected, resulting in a 4% transmission loss per surface. MidOpt uses anti-reflection coating on all filter designs, reducing surface reflection to less than 1%. This improves the efficiency of the vision system by increasing transmission, enhancing contrast and eliminating ghost images. The LP8000 can also transmit wavelengths in the LWIR.
The LP8000 is useful for the following applications: thermal imaging, medical, automotive, pyroelectric/thermopile, flame detection, defence and space.