When it comes to managing stray light, reflection, and thermal performance in sensitive optical systems, traditional solutions like black oxide coating are no longer enough. While black oxide coatings have been widely used for decades to enhance corrosion resistance and reduce glare on metals, their limitations in precision optics, vacuum applications, and space environments are becoming increasingly evident.
The Traditional Role of Black Oxide Coating
Black oxide coating is a chemical process applied to ferrous metals like steel and stainless steel to create a durable, corrosion-resistant surface. Its matte black finish reduces light reflection and adds mild protection without altering the dimensions of the base material. Black oxide has served reliably in industrial, military, and optical tooling applications where basic light absorption and surface treatment are required.
However, black oxide coatings come with significant drawbacks when applied to high-performance systems:
- They are limited to certain metals.
- The process often involves toxic or environmentally harmful chemicals.
- Oil or wax topcoats used in black oxide can outgas, making them unsuitable for cleanroom or vacuum environments.
- Their light absorbance is not sufficient for infrared or space-grade requirements.
Enter Acktar: A New Standard in Light Control
Acktar revolutionizes surface coating technology with ultra-black, particle-free coatings and anti reflection film solutions designed specifically for cutting-edge optical systems. Whether you’re building sensors for aerospace, telescopes for astronomy, or ADAS systems for autonomous vehicles, Acktar delivers the performance where black oxide falls short.
Unlike traditional black oxide coating, Acktar’s vacuum-deposited coatings provide:
- Superior light absorption across UV, VIS, NIR, and FIR wavelengths
- Compatibility with a wide range of substrates, including metals, polymers, and ceramics
- Zero outgassing, making them ideal for vacuum, space, and semiconductor environments
- No particulate contamination, critical for cleanroom applications
- Environmentally clean processes with no hazardous chemicals
Anti Reflection Film for Optical Precision
In addition to black coatings, Acktar manufactures high-performance anti reflection film that significantly reduces surface glare and unwanted light reflections. These films are designed to enhance the efficiency and contrast of optical systems by minimizing signal loss due to stray light. Applications include:
- Space optics and thermal imaging
- Binoculars, microscopes, and telescopes
- LIDAR and photolithography systems
- Screen and lens protection in commercial devices
Acktar’s anti reflection film is engineered using multi-layer thin-film technology tailored to specific spectral requirements, ensuring maximum transmission and minimal reflection in demanding environments.
Why Leading Industries Choose Acktar
Whether for aerospace missions like Europa Clipper, automotive sensors, or advanced lab instrumentation, Acktar coatings and films offer unmatched performance, reliability, and customization.
If you’re looking to go beyond the limitations of standard black oxide coating, or you’re in need of a highly efficient anti reflection film solution, Acktar provides the answer—combining innovative materials with deep expertise in optical surface engineering.
