Material for a high transmittance Prism and where to Buy

InventiveGuy

I am working on a science fair project that will concentrate sunlight and then separate it into 3 sections, visible light, infrared light, and everything else (ex. UV). Each will have its own use. I was wondering how to do about the dispersion of the light. I was originally going to use a glass prism but learned that regular glass absorbs infrared.

Are there special prisms designed for more than just the visible spectrum? If so, where i could buy one?
Also any other ideas on how i could separate the light would be appreciated.

Vanadium 50

You might look up "diffraction grating". That should be enough of a hint.

InventiveGuy

Thankyou for the quick response, i had completely overlooked diffraction gratings.

I am wanting to conserve as much of the energy as i can. If i was to use a diffraction grating, would i loose much of the energy?

Vanadium 50

At the risk of sounding rude, this is your project. It wouldn't be right for us to answer all of your questions.

InventiveGuy

Fair Enough, thankyou anways

Andy Resnick

Quartz has good UV transmission.