Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) is one of the most widely used transparent conductive coatings, combining excellent optical transparency with stable electrical conductivity. ITO-coated windows from Shape Optics Technologies Pte Ltd are engineered for applications requiring EMI/RFI shielding, electrostatic discharge protection, transparent heating, and electro-optical functionality.
ITO coatings are deposited via sputtering onto glass or plastic substrates, producing thin films (typically ~200 nm) that are highly transparent in the visible range while reflecting infrared radiation. This unique property makes ITO windows suitable for both optical and electrical functions in demanding industrial, aerospace, and scientific environments.
Key Features
- High Optical Transparency – Excellent transmission in the visible spectrum
- Stable Electrical Conductivity – Typical sheet resistance 10–45 Ω/sq
- EMI/RFI Shielding Capability – Effective electromagnetic wave reflection
- Thermal Functionality – Suitable for transparent heating and de-icing systems
- Durable & Chemically Stable – Does not oxidize when exposed to air
- Glass & Plastic Compatibility – Applicable to multiple substrate types
Functional Principles
The shielding performance of ITO coatings is primarily achieved through reflection of electromagnetic waves. By optimizing oxygen content during deposition, a balance is achieved between low electrical impedance and high optical transparency.
Typical performance characteristics:
- E-Field attenuation: ~80–120 dB
- Plane-wave attenuation: ~20 dB
- Visible transmission: High (thickness-dependent)
- Infrared reflection: Strong
Standard Product Specifications & Performance
| Dimension (mm) | Substrate | Wavelength Range (nm) | Surface Resistance (Ω/sq) | Electrode Holder |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 400–700 | 45 | Cu |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 450–650 | 45 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 500–1064 | 30 | Cu |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 500–900 | 30 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 600–950 | 30 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 900–1250 | 40 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 900–1550 | 30 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 1150–1650 | 25 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 1150–2000 | 25 | Cu + Ag |
| 123 × 123 × 2.5 | B270 | 1550–2450 | 25 | Cu + Ag |
Transmission vs. electrical impedance and thickness are characterized and verified in the Shape Optics coating laboratory.
Coating & Optical Enhancement Options
- Multi-Layer AR Coating (MIL-SPEC-675B): < 0.6% residual reflection
- Single-Layer AR Coating (DIN 58197): < 1.5% residual reflection
- Chemical Etching: Highly diffuse surface finish
- Anti-Scratch / AR Spray Coatings
Typical Applications
ITO coated windows are widely used in:
- EMI / RFI Shielding Windows
- Touch Screen & Touch Panel Systems
- LCD & Electro-Optical Electrodes
- ESD Protection (Electrostatic Discharge)
- Electrochromic Displays
- Energy-Saving Architectural Windows
- Heated Optical Filters & Displays
- Aircraft & Aerospace Windshields
- Gas & Semiconductor Sensors
Material Properties (ITO)
- Density: ~7 g/cm³
- Color: White to slightly yellowish
- Chemical Stability: Excellent (non-oxidizing in air)
- Typical Thickness: ~200 nm