Paper 14108-23
Paper 14108-23
Development of radial gradient index (GRIN) optics by ionic exchange to improve the performance of infrared optronic systems
14 April 2026 • 16:30 - 16:50 CEST | Madrid 1/Salon 3 (Niveau/Level 0)
Abstract
Compact infrared imaging systems demand optical components that minimize size, weight, and complexity while maintaining high performance. Gradient-index (GRIN) optics provide a path to such systems by controlling light propagation through continuous refractive-index variations, reducing the need for multiple corrective lenses. Chalcogenide glasses are ideal candidates for MWIR–LWIR applications due to their high refractive index and broad infrared transparency, yet producing reproducible radial GRIN profiles remains challenging. In this work, we explore a solid-solid ionic exchange approach to induce refractive-index gradients in chalcogenide glasses. A modified processing strategy is proposed to improve control over ion diffusion and mitigate surface degradation during thermal treatment. Preliminary results demonstrate the formation of radial GRIN profiles in bulk samples, as evidenced by optical and compositional characterizations. These structures exhibit measurable optical power and remain free of major structural defects. This study highlights the potential of ionic exchange techniques for infrared GRIN optics and suggests pathways toward more compact optical architectures.
Presenter
Dupré Roxane
ONERA (France), Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes (France)
Roxane Dupré is a second-year PhD student within the ASTRID/MIRGRIN project, dedicated to the development of radial and spherical Gradient Index (GRIN) optics through ion exchange, with the goal of improving the performance of infrared optronic systems. She is employed by ONERA/AID and collaborates with ISCR and the company Umi-core (Acigné) on this project. Before starting her PhD, she obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and then a Master’s degree in Solid-State and Materials Chemistry from the University of Rennes, which she completed with a one-year apprenticeship at Souriau. There, she worked on the characterization of glasses used in glass-to-metal seal-ing of hermetic connectors designed for harsh environments, thereby developing solid expertise in glass materials and industrial processes.