Abstract

We present a simple two step method for fabrication of high efficiency, wide bandwidth holographic optical elements (HOEs). The method begins with the recording of an aberration optimized first-step hologram using highly sensitive holographic recording material of higher wavelength response, such as silver halide. The hologram is then contact copied onto a less sensitive, but high efficiency low noise recording material, such as dichromated gelatin (DCG), or Du Pont photopolymer. The efficiency and the wavelength response of the final HOEs are then adjusted and fine-tuned as required by controlled processing. Specifically, this method allows fabrication of large aperture, high efficiency HOEs in large volume for nonimaging concentrator use, such as in photovoltaic solar energy generation.

© 1991 Optical Society of America