Do my parabolic mirrors need to be really shiny to reflect infrared?

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of old, not very shiny CENCO parabolic reflectors to demonstrate infrared light radiation. The question is whether or not the mirrors need to be cleaned and polished to improve their reflection of IR. The advice is to clean them with soapy water and polish them, making sure to remove any IR absorbing film from commercial polish. It is also suggested to experiment with before and after assessments to determine the effectiveness of the cleaning. The use of experimental evidence is seen as powerful in arguments.
  • #1
cj
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Summary:: Do my parabolic mirrors need to be really shiny to reflect infrared?

I have 2 really old CENCO parabolic reflectors.

I need to use them to demonstrate infrared light radiation by placing a heat source near one mirror, reflecting its heat to a second parabolic mirror and concentrating that mirror's reflected light to a match placed at the focal point.

Neither mirror is very shiny anymore. Should I clean and polish them to get them really shiny, or does this not really affect the reflection of IR?

Thank you!
 
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  • #2
cj said:
Neither mirror is very shiny anymore.
You must remove the surface contamination of oxide and dust that will block IR.
Start with soapy water. That might fix a dust or dirt problem.
Polish the surfaces to clean them, but make sure that you do not leave an IR absorbing film from a commercial polish on the final surface. Finish with a mechanical polishing.

You have an opportunity to experiment with before and after assessments.
 
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  • #3
Good advice, thanks!
 
  • #4
Baluncore said:
You have an opportunity to experiment with before and after assessments.
Always. If ever in doubt then experiment.

Very powerful for argufying on PF, too. Such evidence works at least as well as CERN's for appropriate situations. It shows people you are really involved in the stuff.
 
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FAQ: Do my parabolic mirrors need to be really shiny to reflect infrared?

1. Do my parabolic mirrors need to be polished to a high shine to reflect infrared?

Yes, the surface of a parabolic mirror needs to be polished to a high shine in order to effectively reflect infrared light. The smoother the surface, the less light will be scattered or absorbed, resulting in a more efficient reflection.

2. Can I use a regular mirror instead of a parabolic mirror to reflect infrared light?

No, a regular mirror is not designed to reflect infrared light. Parabolic mirrors are specifically designed with a curved shape to focus and reflect infrared light to a specific point, making them more effective for this purpose.

3. How can I tell if my parabolic mirror is reflective enough for infrared light?

There are various methods for testing the reflectivity of a parabolic mirror, such as using an infrared light source and a detector to measure the amount of light reflected. However, it is best to consult with a specialist or use a high-quality parabolic mirror specifically designed for reflecting infrared light.

4. Can I enhance the reflectivity of my parabolic mirror for infrared light?

Yes, there are several ways to enhance the reflectivity of a parabolic mirror for infrared light. One method is to apply a reflective coating, such as aluminum or silver, to the surface of the mirror. Another method is to use a process called diamond turning, which involves cutting the surface of the mirror with a diamond-tipped tool to create a smoother and more reflective surface.

5. Is it necessary to maintain the shine of my parabolic mirror over time?

Yes, it is important to regularly clean and maintain the shine of your parabolic mirror in order to ensure optimal reflectivity for infrared light. Over time, dust, dirt, and other contaminants can build up on the surface of the mirror, reducing its reflectivity. Regular cleaning and polishing can help maintain the mirror's effectiveness.

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