Abstract

While bits and pieces of the index of refraction n and extinction coefficient k for a given material can be found in several handbooks, the Handbook of Optical Constants of Solids gives for the first time a single set of n and k values over the broadest spectral range (ideally from x-ray to mm-wave region). The critiquers have chosen the numbers for you, based on their own broad experience in the study of optical properties. Whether youneed one number at one wavelength or many numbers at many wavelengths, what is available in the literature is condensed down into a single set of numbers.
* Contributors have decided the best values for n and k
* References in each critique allow the reader to go back to the original data to examine and understand where the values have come from
* Allows the reader to determine if any data in a spectral region needs to be filled in
* Gives a wide and detailed view of experimental techniques for measuring the optical constants n and k
* Incorporates and describes crystal structure, space-group symmetry, unit-cell dimensions, number of optic and acoustic modes, frequencies of optic modes, the irreducible representation, band gap, plasma frequency, and static dielectric constant.
This book will serve as a useful reference. The editor and contributers deserve a measure of thanks for their effort to facilitate for us the finding values of the optical constants of 37 solids and for providing an in-one-placesummary of several techniques for determination of n and k.
--R.M.A. Azzam and Jacqueline Casset in APPLIED OPTICS
The beauty of this book is in the breadth of the spectral range covered....The value of this compilation of critically reviewed optical data far outweighs the books defeciencies and...this handbook must be regarded as a necessity in any physics or materials science reference library.
--David M. Roessler, General Motors Research Laboratories, Warren, Michigin, in OPTICAL NEWS
The editor prepared a table that summarizes the optical properties of the materials reviewed in Volus. I and II. The amount of the detail that it contains is truly astounding....There is a fundamental reason why a book of this type is much more useful than an abbreviated compilation....The book is attractive to workers in many fields because of the vast range of the data.
--Philip Baumeister, Coherent Auburn Group, Auburn, California, in OPTICS AND PHOTONICS NEWS
This book is an essential addition to every scientific reference library and to the bookshelves of all who are interested in what is loosely referred to as 'the optical properties of solids.
--B.L. EVANS, University of Reading, U.K.