Transparent Ionically Self-Assembled Thin Films for Contamination

"We propose to develop improved, cost effective coatings for high-energy laser mirrors and windows that repel contamination based on transparent, highly efficient, and durable ionically self-assembled monolayer (ISAM) films. The proposed program involves 1)demonstration of the underlying principle using aqueous ISAM chemistry and 2) build and test a prototype coating based on the new technology. This revolutionary method of creating multifunctional thin-films monolayer by monolayer has been proven to yieldself-assembled, homogeneous thin films that can be deposited on any size and shape substrates, as well as on transparent flexible substrates. The ISAM technique allows for precise structural and thickness control at the nanometer level as well as forfabrication of thick multi-layer films. Luna Innovations has previously shown that the ISAM technique can be used to fabricate multifunctional thin-films monolayer by monolayer that are optically, electronically and photonically- active. The ISAM thinfilms offer additional major advantages of excellent homogeneity for low scattering loss, high thermal and chemical stability, and low-cost. The development of the organic thin film coatings will benefit the laser industry for contamination control oflaser windows and mirrors. Coatings that repel contamination fabricated from ISAM thin films have a variety of military and commercial applications such as laser systems, various optical systems