A Large-aperture Alumina Composite Lens for Millimeter Wavelength Instruments

We introduce a new method for developing a wide-band lens for millimeter wavelengths. This method is largely based on a process known as a vacuum infusion process (VIP) which is commonly used in the field of composites. So far, we have made samples with this method but have not yet succeeded with producing a lens. We provide measurements of the optical properties of materials we have used thus far and outline the theory for producing a functioning lens with this methodology. In the end, we anticipate being able to produce such a lens for ≤1,000 USD, drastically reducing the cost for such a product.