Newport’s standard right-angle prisms are polished to λ/8 surface flatness for high precision applications. We offer then with N-BK7 substrates which work great for general laboratory use in the visible and near IR range. Our right-angle prisms are available in a range of sizes from 3.20 mm to 50 mm with a selection of antireflection coatings to meet specific demands. The antireflection coatings reduce surface losses while leaving the TIR and acceptance angle unaffected. Maximum versatility is achieved by coating all faces of the prism.

Right-angle prisms are typically used to redirect a laser beam or reflect incoming light. By means of total internal reflection (TIR), a right-angle prism may be used as a 90° reflector or as a 180° retro-reflector. Except for reflection losses from the entry and exit faces, TIR exhibits 100% reflectivity over a very broad wavelength range. The reflecting surface should be coated with protected aluminum if the incidence angle exceeds that acceptable for TIR or if the environment does not allow the reflecting surface to be kept clean, as TIR requires. The hypotenuse can also be used as a first surface reflector.

PRISM