This article delves into the functionality of Interference Bandpass Filters (IBFs), their applications, and how Knight Optical offers tailored solutions for seamless integration into various end-use scenarios.

Understanding the mechanism of Interference Bandpass Filters
Interference Bandpass Filters are pivotal in numerous sectors, enabling the selective transmission of specific wavelengths while effectively blocking unwanted bands. Essentially, these filters are engineered to allow certain frequencies to pass through while reflecting others. As a notable exmaple, if you require an optical component that transmits a segment of the infrared (IR) spectrum while obstructing ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, Interference Bandpass Filters are the ideal choice.
When evaluating Interference Bandpass Filters for your needs, two critical aspects must be considered.First, as previously mentioned, the wavelengths that are not desired are reflected, necessitating careful consideration of where these reflected wavelengths will be directed. Second, the performance of these filters is influenced by the angle of incidence, with shorter wavelengths being favored as the angle increases.

Applications of Interference Bandpass Filters
The selective nature of Interference Bandpass filters makes them invaluable across various applications. At Knight Optical, we provide customizable options, allowing these essential optical components to be tailored for optimal integration into your specific application. These filters are notably prevalent in imaging technologies and can be found in diverse settings worldwide.
Notable Applications Include:

Food Industry Applications
Interference Bandpass Filters are extensively utilized in the food sector,especially near-infrared (NIR) filters for food spectroscopy. A relevant study titled ‘Simulation of NIR Interference Bandpass Filters for Spectroscopic Applications’ discusses how these filters can be employed to assess quality and differentiate between various meat samples1. The research involved designing and optimizing three bandpass filters for distinct wavelength ranges using advanced synthesis techniques1.

Astronomical Research
In the realm of extragalactic astronomy, Interference Bandpass Filters are also employed for imaging applications. A notable project is detailed in the 2020 paper, ‘Wide-field ultra-narrow-bandpass imaging with the Dragonfly Telephoto Array’. This research focuses on enhancing the imaging capabilities of the Dragonfly Telephoto Array,a ground-based optical telescope system developed at the Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics,University of Toronto3. The study highlights the creation of a ‘Dragonfly Filter-Tilter’, a device that positions ultra-narrow bandpass filters (Δλ ≈1 nm) in front of each lens in the array2.
These examples illustrate the diverse applications of interference Bandpass Filters, with ongoing innovations continually emerging. A recent study introduces a new generation of miniaturized signal-interference bandpass filters (BPFs) utilizing resonant signal-interference (RSI) stages4.
High-Quality, Metrology-tested Filters from Knight Optical
At Knight Optical, our extensive selection of Interference Bandpass Filters is renowned for its superior quality.Unlike many filters that are merely sealed in metal housings with resin—making them prone to leakage and moisture damage—our filters are individually CNC scribed and hermetically sealed. This process ensures a secure assembly within the filter rings,providing maximum long-term stability.
Our stock of Interference Bandpass Filters ranges from 214nm to 2000nm, available in various bandwidths from narrow 3nm FIN types to broader 65 to 100nm FIW types.
We offer a variety of filter types, including:
- Broadband Interference Bandpass Filters
- Narrowband Interference Bandpass Filters
- Standard Interference Bandpass filters
- UV Interference Bandpass Filters
In addition to our complete stock, we also provide custom-made Interference Bandpass Filters tailored to your specifications.
Contact Us for Customized Solutions to learn more about our tailored Interference Bandpass Filters >

Why Partner with Knight Optical?
At Knight Optical, we provide a diverse range of Interference Bandpass Filters. Our discerning clients trust us not only for the exceptional quality of our products and the capabilities of our state-of-the-art Metrology Laboratory and QA department but also for our extensive stock optics available for next-day dispatch, alongside our sought-after custom-made optical components.
This year marks our 30th anniversary in the industry. With three decades of experience and a portfolio of long-standing, prestigious clients, we take pride in having contributed to some of the most innovative advancements in the field.
If you seek high-quality, bespoke optical components, please reach out to our Technical Sales Team today.
FOOTNOTES:
1https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303072763_Simulation_of_Near_Infrared_Interference_Bandpass_Filters_for_Spectroscopic_Applications
2https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/conference-proceedings-of-spie/11445/1144527/Wide-field-ultra-narrow-bandpass-imaging-with-the-dragonfly-Telephoto/10.1117/12.2561162.short?SSO=1
3https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragonfly_Telephoto_Array
4https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/9338040