Adam Khan
AKHAN Semiconductor, Inc., USA
Title: Nanocrystalline diamond based protective optical coatings for infrared windows
Biography
Biography: Adam Khan
Abstract
Diamond has remarkable thermal and mechanical properties including extreme thermal conductivity, low thermal coefficient of expansion, hydrophobicity, chemical inertness, and ultra-hardness for scratch-resistance and durability. Coupled with high optical transmissivity over a broad wavelength range (UV-VIS-IR), these attributes make diamond an ideal protective coating for optical components and windows used in extreme environments. In this work we investigate the use of Nanocrystalline Diamond (NCD) based multi-layer structures for the protection of MWIR windows, an application that is critical for sustained sensor operation in extreme battlefield conditions. The effort incorporates layer designs based on measured optical constants and commercially available optical design software (Open Filters). Protective films deposited via CVD techniques on optical quality silicon substrates are characterized for mechanical and optical properties including hardness, stress, transmissivity, and optical constants. Measured results demonstrate NCD viability as a protective coating for a broad range of optical applications. The technology is compatible with large area scaling, low-temperature deposition on sensitive surfaces, and, in future adaptations, will support integrated transparent electronics.