A hybrid algorithm for reengineering the refractive index profile of inhomogeneous coatings from optical in-situ broadband monitoring data

Reengineering the refractive index profile of inhomogeneous coatings is a troublesome task. Multiplicity of solutions may significantly reduced by providing additional information. For this reason an in-situ broadband monitoring system was developed to measure the transmittance of the growing film directly at the rotating substrate. For characterization of these coatings, a new model was developed, which significantly reduces the number of parameters. The refractive index profile may be described by a proper number of equally spaced volume fraction values using the Bruggeman effective media approach. A good initial approximation of the refractive index profile can be generated based on deposition rates for both materials recorded with quartz crystal monitor during manufacturing. During the optimization process, a second order minimization algorithm was used to vary the refractive index profile of the whole coating and film thickness of the intermediate stages. Finally, a significantly improved accuracy of the modelled transmittance was achieved.