Optical Filter Durability & Environmental Specifications
Chroma optical filters are built for tough environments—from 24/7 instruments to systems in the field. Our magnetron sputtered thin‑film coatings are engineered for long‑term stability and repeatable performance, and we validate that performance with industry‑standard environmental and durability tests. We routinely manufacture optical components to meet the requirements of the tests listed below. Additionally, we can qualify to other requirements and/or customer‑specific procedures.
Please note: the specifications below represent typical performance for our catalog, all‑dielectric filter designs. Some specialized constructions including parts that incorporate sputtered metal layers (e.g., certain mirrors or neutral‑density filters), laminated or absorption‑glass hybrids, or parts with minimal overcoats, may perform differently.
If your application depends on a specific test outcome, Contact Us and we’ll confirm for your exact part.
Environmental & Durability Tests
Test | Description | MIL Spec | ISO Spec |
|---|---|---|---|
Adhesion – Moderate | Quick tape removal | MIL‑C‑48497 4.5.3.1 | ISO 9211-4-02-02 |
Adhesion - Severe | Snap tape removal | MIL‑C‑48497 4.5.3.1 | ISO 9211‑4-02-03 |
Abrasion – Moderate | Cheesecloth rubs under defined load | MIL‑C‑48497 4.5.3.3 | ISO 9211‑4-01-01 |
Solubility - Moderate | Distilled/DI boiling water | — | ISO 9211‑4‑04‑08 |
Humidity | Elevated temperature / humidity | MIL‑C‑48497 4.5.3.2 | ISO 9022‑2‑12‑07 |
Damp Heat - Moderate | Elevated temperature / humidity | — | ISO 9022‑2‑12‑06 |
Damp Heat - Severe | Elevated temperature / humidity for extended duration | — | ISO 9022‑2‑12‑07 |
Dry Heat – Moderate | Elevated temperature exposure | — | ISO 9022‑2‑07‑03 & ISO 9022-2-11-03 |
Dry Heat - Severe | Higher‑temperature exposure | — | ISO 9022‑2‑07‑06 & ISO 9022-2-11-06 |
Low Temperature | Low‑temperature exposure | MIL‑C‑48497A 4.5.4.1 | — |
Induced Hot Humid Cycle | Cycled temp‑humidity profile | MIL‑STD‑810G Method 507.5, Procedure 1, Cycle B3 | — |
Salt Fog | Corrosive salt atmosphere exposure | MIL‑STD‑810G Method 509.5, Paragraph 2.2.3 | — |
Need Another Test Method?
We regularly manufacture optics to meet other requirements and customer‑specific acceptance criteria. Contact us with your specific requirements and we will be happy to confirm product performance.
Laser Damage Threshold (LDT)
Chroma optical filters are designed to handle high laser power while maintaining stable spectral performance. Laser Damage Threshold testing, performed to ISO 21254, measures how much energy or power a coating can withstand before any measurable change occurs. The table below summarizes the typical LDT performance for our catalog filters under pulsed and continuous-wave (CW) conditions.
Regime | Method | Typical Performance |
|---|---|---|
Pulsed | ISO 21254 | Peak Fluence < 1.75 Joules/cm^2 |
Continuous‑wave (CW) | ISO 21254 | CW (continuous wave) Intensity < 2 MW/cm^2 |
Operating & Storage Conditions
The ranges below reflect typical catalog performance for all-dielectric designs. Non-condensing humidity is assumed.
Please note: optical filters naturally experience small spectral shifts with temperature. If your application requires especially tight wavelength or edge tolerances, we can design the filter to meet specification at your intended operating and/or storage temperature.
For demanding thermal profiles, please Contact Us with your requirements.
Condition | Range |
|---|---|
Operating Temperature / Humidity | −40 to +70 °C, 0–100% RH (non‑condensing) |
Storage Temperature / Humidity | −100 to +200 °C, 0–100% RH (non‑condensing) |
Still Have Questions?
Have a qualification requirement or need a certificate? Contact us and our team will confirm and document performance to meet your specific needs.
