Lanthanide trifluoride thin films: Structure, composition, and optical properties.

This study characterizes thin films of eleven lanthanide trifluorides which are potentially useful for optical applications. The natural and controlled transparency and real refractive index of single layers of these trifluorides are examined and accompanied by studies of composition and crystal structure of the films which are made by conventional, high temperature, and ion-assisted thermal evaporation. Additionally, since these particular fluoride compounds provide an excellent opportunity for doing so, the mechanisms active in film modification through high temperature and ion-assisted thermal evaporation are explored