Abstract

In many practical situations, it is important to know the optical constants (n and k) of thin absorbing films over a wide wavelength range. Knowledge of these optical constants enables the calculation of the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with the films when incorporated into devices such as heat mirrors, selective photothermal absorbers and photovoltaic cells. Less well known is the use of these constants in sum rules, in order to deduce bonding and structural information about the films [1,2].

© 1984 Optical Society of America