Materials problems in the production of high quality optical surfaces

Abstract The production of optical surfaces of high perfection is still largely dependent on manual skills and on an empirical technology which has been developed over the past two hundred years. It is becoming more difficult to meet the demands for optical components of even higher surface perfection and more complex surface figure, by the traditional glass working techniques. An understanding of the techniques employed, the materials used and the conflicting polishing theories should enable the materials scientist to contribute to the advancement of the science and technology of glass polishing.