An optical element, such as a lens, is described that provides good transmission
of radiation in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, that can
be molded using an injection molding technique. The optical element comprises a
moldable matrix in which is distributed a plurality of particles. The material
comprising the matrix is selected so as to have a relatively low absorption of
radiation in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, and the material
comprising the particles is selected to have a relatively high transmissivity of
radiation in the infrared portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, and both materials
are selected so as to have approximately the same index of refraction. The optical
element comprising the matrix/particle composite is formed to provide surfaces
having the contours that are required to provide the desired optical properties.
