History of and potential for optical bonding agents in the visible

James T. Magyar

doi:10.1117/12.48303

1 November 1991 History of and potential for optical bonding agents in the visible

James T. Magyar

Proceedings Volume 1535, Passive Materials for Optical Elements; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.48303
Event: San Diego, '91, 1991, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Nature was the original producer of optical coupling agents. Canada Balsam, the sap from a balsam tree, when distilled and filtered, yielded an extremely viscous bonding agent for optical elements. At moderate temperatures, Canada Balsam was an almost ideal bonding agent. It had a refractive index of approximately 1.5, transmitted light in wave lengths from 350 millimicrons to over 1 micron in very high per— centages and could fill minor differences between the surfaces of a crown and flint element. However, "moderate temperatures" was the problem area. In microscopes or telescopes that would be protected from severe temperatures, Canada Balsam performed just fine. But in fire control systems in tanks during desert warfare or optical systems in high altitude aircraft, Balsam thinned in high temperatures and crazed in low. World War II drove these facts home very clearly.

Citation Download Citation

James T. Magyar "History of and potential for optical bonding agents in the visible", Proc. SPIE 1535, Passive Materials for Optical Elements, (1 November 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.48303

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