A first surface mirror provides superior optical quality for engineering and scientific applications. Unlike a standard household mirror, which is coated on the second surface of the glass, a first surface mirror provides an accurate reflection without ghost images. Optical experts recommend first surface mirrors for use in precision optics applications.

Metal coatings are typically very fragile without a protective overcoat. A dielectric overcoat on a metallic mirror increases the durability of the metal coating as well as provides a barrier to help prevent oxidation.  The overcoat has little impact on the performance of the metal coating.

Protected Aluminum

Standard protected aluminum is our most popular mirror coating for applications in the visible and near-infrared. A layer of Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) is typically used as an overcoat to protect the aluminum layer. This addition to the coating provides an abrasion-resistant surface while maintaining the performance of aluminum mirror. Another option for the overcoat is Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2).

Enhanced Aluminum

In our Enhanced Aluminum coating, a multi-layer film of dielectrics on top of aluminum is used to increase the reflectance in the visible regions. This coating is ideal for applications requiring increased reflectance from 400 – 650nm. The multi-layer film also provides the same durability characteristics as the protected aluminum coating.

• Round and Square Flat Mirrors available
• OEM capabilities – please contact for special pricing
• Test samples are available on request