Refractive index gradient in the surface of a zirconium fluoride glass by exchange with chlorine

Abstract

The refractive index of the surface of a zirconium fluoride glass was increased by exchanging fluorine in the glass with gaseous chlorine. The chlorine profile in the glass surface, as measured by Rutherford backscattering, was that expected for diffusion. The refractive index change was measured with ellipsometry, and compared to models of the concentration profile of chlorine.