Abstract: Described are multilayer optical composites including a first layer having an index of refraction n1, an ith layer having an index of refraction ni greater than n1, and one or two or more intermediate layers between the first layer and the ith layer, wherein the indices of refraction of the intermediate layers are between n1 and ni, and the index of refraction of each intermediate layer increases in the order of position of each layer from the first layer.

Abstract: In a multilayer dielectric reflector, treating the surface of the reflector selectively increases the amount of light transmitted through the reflector. Various surface treatments can be used to permit light to transmit through the reflector that would otherwise be reflected by the reflector. In one such reflector, different portions of the surface have different coupling efficiencies for coupling light having a high propagation angle into the multilayer reflector. Those portions having higher coupling efficiencies on each side of the reflector have a higher degree of transmission.