Characterization of moldable glass for imaging lenses in the shortwave infrared (SWIR)

The growing demand for short wave infrared (SWIR) sensors and cameras has focused attention on the need for lower cost optics in this infrared region. Traditional low Tg moldable glasses typically stop transmitting in the SWIR region. New low dispersion, moldable glasses have been found that transmit through 3 microns and in combination with Precision Glass Molding (PGM) can bring this enabling technology to SWIR optics. This investigation reviews the material performance for a potential moldable solution in the SWIR range. Specific attention is given toward glasses that achieve high yields during precision glass molding and are candidates for commercial success.