Beamsplitters

(Custom reflectivities are available for beamsplitters. Contact a II-VI sales representative for more information.

Beamsplitters for CO2 Laser Systems

Beamsplitters are used to reflect a certain percentage of incident energy, while transmitting the remaining energy. In most cases, beamsplitters are angle, wavelength, and polarization sensitive.

Most beamsplitter coatings are highly polarization sensitive. Thus, if the source’s polarization state varies with time, as in some randomly polarized lasers, the beamsplitters transmission will also vary with time.

The beamsplitters described here are designed for use at 45° angle of incidence and 10.6µm wavelength. At this angle of incidence, there can be significant differences in the transmittance/reflectance values for s and p-polarizations. It is essential that the laser’s polarization state be specified when ordering these optics. (See our Polarization tutorial for definitions of s and p polarizations.)

Our standard beamsplitter is supplied with a wedge of 6 to 10 arc minutes. This wedge amount significantly reduces interference caused by reflections off the second surface, which can cause an etalon effect and disturb optical performance. All II-VI beamsplitters are E-field optimized to minimize absorption and increase their damage threshold.

* Note: I-Pol is polarization insensitive, meaning it's used for all polarizations (S, P, R). I-Pol beamsplitters are opaque to visible wavelengths. Please refer to our Polarization tutorial to determine correct polarization of beamsplitters.

Beamsplitter Alternatives

Because of the virtually limitless number of nominal reflectivity and polarization states for beamsplitters, II-VI does not maintain a standard beamsplitter stock. Thus, when manufacturing a beamsplitter, a special coating run will be performed to meet the precise specifications you require. A coating lot charge is incurred to provide this service.

However, under some circumstances, it’s possible to use our standard partial reflector coatings designed for 0° incidence as a 45° angle of incidence beamsplitter. When this is done, remember that neither the beamsplitter nor the second surface anti-reflection coating is designed for use at 45°.

For this reason, it’s not possible to put a standard tolerance on these parts. Fortunately, because these are standard coatings, they cost significantly less than having a special beamsplitter fabricated, so that their price advantage may outweigh their performance disadvantage.

With beamsplitters operated at 45°, it’s necessary for the substrate to have a slight wedge amount in order to eliminate interference effects. When purchasing a standard 0° angle of incidence partial reflector for use at 45°, it is essential that a substrate wedge angle of 6 to 10 arc minutes be specified at the time for ordering. Furthermore, we will laser test your part for reflectivity at s and p polarization free of charge if you request it at the time of order.