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Low-Divergence Diffusers are a unique product that are often used in illumination systems as an alternative to micro-lens arrays or for spinning diffuser-disk assemblies used to break up the coherence (or speckle) of a laser imaging system. Unlike traditional ground glass diffusers that scatter light over a half-sphere, these diffusers can be made to scatter light over a narrow diverging cone of light - similar to a negative lens. This is very helpful when there is a need for a diffuser, but there are light efficiency considerations.
These diffusers are made from Corning HPFS® fused silica, and therefore have excellent transmittance in the Visible and UV spectrum, excellent resistance to high power laser damage, as well as nearly zero coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). The diffusing surface can be made on a variety of different shapes, from disks to rods.
The divergence angle of the diffuser is obtained by a proprietary chemical processing process, forming tiny negative "lenslets".
LDD Diffusers can be made with a diffusing surface on one or both sides and can be coated to suit. Since the intensity profile is Gaussian, divergence is typically specified as a Full Width Half Max or a Half Width Half Max.
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