Interlayer-free bonding of optical components
Joining technologies in high-performance optics is subject to extreme requirements. The component joints should not affect the optical properties, provide a long-term stable connection and often firmly connect materials with different thermal properties in demanding temperature regimes. At the same time, high geometric precision is essential for providing the optical function.
Our team researches high-precision joining processes, e.g. silicate joining, plasma-activated joining, for optical materials and components. We develop processes that meet the high demands of manufacturing high-performance optics and cater to customer-specific requirements. Silicate joining enables a high mechanical strength of the joint and plasma-activated joining without an intermediate layer provides the desired optical transparency and mechanical strength.
We offer you customised solutions for your joining task. We evaluate the feasibility of your task and develop an efficient solution. We characterise components and assess their suitability for our long-term stable joining processes. If necessary, we carry out post-processing of the joining surfaces. In doing so, we utilise a wide range of correction methods. We carry out fundamental investigations into the joining behaviour of new types of material pairings. Finally, we characterise the joined joint with regard to various parameters:
We develop solutions for your demanding joining tasks, from the evaluation of possible joining technologies to the high-precision production of your (sub)system and validation according to the respective problem. In doing so, we draw on our extensive expertise in joining and processing optical materials.
Processing of optical materials
Plasma-activated joining
Silicate joining
Interlayer-free joining offers significant advantages over conventional joining technologies. It enables optical components to be joined without changing the refractive index. The minimised absorption in the transition zone leads to assemblies for high-performance optical applications with reduced thermal lensing and low thermal stress on the optical materials. Fraunhofer IOF develops high-precision compounds of different materials for optical systems, e.g. silica glass, sapphire and optical crystals as well as coated components.
Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF