Multilayer polymer GRIN singlets: manufacturing and performance

Abstract

The design and performance of two multilayer polymer gradient index (GRIN) singlets are discussed. One singlet is an f/4 monochromat based on an axial GRIN geometry. The other is an f/6 achromat based on a spherical GRIN geometry. The design for each lens was modified to account for as-manufactured GRIN contours and final layer thicknesses. Asmanufactured performance for each lens was consistent with the performance of a commercial, air-spaced doublet predicted to be diffraction-limited at 532 nm, within the resolution of our setup for measuring the point spread functions of our lens elements.