CO₂ Spray Cleaning for Optics: A Clean Surface for Optical Coating

Feb 10

Optical coatings require a perfectly clean surface. Any contamination—dust, oil, or particles—can cause defects in the coating, reducing performance. Traditional cleaning methods may leave residues or introduce moisture, which can interfere with the coating process.

CO₂ spray cleaning, available through Founders Cleaning, provides a dry, residue-free method for cleaning optics before coating. This process removes contaminants effectively without damaging delicate surfaces. If you're interested in testing CO₂ spray cleaning for your application, contact Founders Cleaning today.

How CO₂ Spray Cleaning Works

CO₂ spray cleaning uses a jet of frozen CO₂ particles, propelled at high speed, to lift contaminants from surfaces. The CO₂ particles evaporate on contact, leaving no residues. This process removes fine particles, organic films, and other contaminants without using water or solvents.

Key Benefits:

Dry Process – No water or solvent residues remain on the surface.
Non-Abrasive – Safe for delicate optical components.
Removes Submicron Particles, Oils, and Fingerprints – Effective against even the smallest contaminants.
No Static Buildup – Helps prevent dust from reattaching.

Founders Cleaning can help you evaluate how CO₂ spray cleaning improves your optical cleaning process. Reach out to our team to discuss your needs.

Why Use CO₂ Cleaning Before Optical Coating?

A clean surface ensures better adhesion and performance of optical coatings. Even microscopic contamination can cause defects like haze, adhesion failures, or performance degradation. CO₂ spray cleaning removes particles, oils, and organic films without introducing moisture or residues.

This process is ideal for cleaning:

Lenses
Mirrors
Precision glass components
Other optical substrates

By using CO₂ cleaning, manufacturers can improve yield rates and coating consistency. Founders Cleaning can provide testing to demonstrate how CO₂ cleaning can benefit your process. Contact us to learn more.

Comparisons:

    
    
    



    
        
            Cleaning Method
            Residue-Free
            Dry Process
            Removes Submicron Particles
            Removes Oils
            Removes Fingerprints
            Non-Abrasive
        

            CO₂ Spray Cleaning
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
        

            Solvent Cleaning
            ❌
            ❌
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
            ❌
        

            Ultrasonic Cleaning
            ✅
            ❌
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
            ✅
        

            Wiping with IPA
            ❌
            ✅
            ❌
            ✅
            ✅
            ❌
        

CO₂ Spray Cleaning

CO₂ spray cleaning is an effective, dry cleaning process that removes submicron particles, oils, and fingerprints without leaving residues. Because it is a non-contact and non-abrasive method, it is ideal for optics that require high precision and cleanliness. It eliminates contamination without introducing moisture, which is critical before applying optical coatings.

If you are considering CO₂ spray cleaning for your optics, Founders Cleaning can provide demonstrations and testing. Contact us to get started.

Solvent Cleaning

Solvent cleaning involves applying chemical solvents, such as acetone or isopropyl alcohol (IPA), to dissolve contaminants. While effective at removing oils and fingerprints, it often leaves behind residue that can interfere with coatings. Additionally, solvent-based cleaning methods introduce moisture, which can be problematic in sensitive applications. The handling and disposal of solvents also add cost and regulatory concerns.

Ultrasonic Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves in a liquid bath to dislodge contaminants from surfaces. This method is highly effective at removing oils, particles, and fingerprints. However, because it involves a liquid medium, it introduces moisture to the surface. Optical components must be dried thoroughly after cleaning, and drying methods may leave streaks or water spots if not properly managed.

Wiping with IPA

Wiping with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is a common cleaning method in optical manufacturing. It effectively removes oils and fingerprints but struggles with submicron particles. Wiping can also leave streaks or lint on the surface, leading to inconsistencies in optical coating adhesion. Additionally, the mechanical action of wiping can introduce scratches, making it less ideal for sensitive optical components.

Conclusion

For optical manufacturers, achieving a flawless coating starts with a perfectly clean surface. CO₂ spray cleaning, available through Founders Cleaning, provides a reliable, residue-free solution for preparing optics before coating. It removes particles, oils, and fingerprints without introducing moisture or residues, ensuring the best possible adhesion for optical coatings.

By integrating CO₂ spray cleaning into the production process, manufacturers can achieve better optical performance, higher yield rates, and reduced contamination-related defects.

Interested in testing CO₂ spray cleaning for your optics? Contact Founders Cleaning today to discuss your application and schedule a demonstration.

Jim Jaworski