Comparative study of NIR-MIR beamsplitters based on ZnS/YbF and Ge/YbF.

Two beamsplitters operating across the near-infrared (770-1050 nm) and mid-infrared (4-8 µm) spectral ranges are developed. For the first time, the beamsplitters based on thin-film materials combinations of ZnS/YbF and Ge/YbF are investigated. The multilayers operate at the Brewster angle of ZnSe substrate. There are no special temperature conditions. The dichroic coatings are designed, produced, and carefully characterized. Potentials of the ZnS/YbF and Ge/YbF thin-film material combinations are discussed based on analytical estimations, as well as on optical and non-optical characterization results. The ZnS/YbF pair provides high reflectance in the near-infrared spectral range. The Ge/YbF solutions exhibit very broadband reflection zones. The Ge/YbF coatings are thinner and comprise fewer layers than ZnS/YbF multilayers. Ge/YbF pair has high potential for design and production of NIR-MIR coatings.