Single layer Al(2)O(3).H(2)O and multilayer Al(2) O(3).H(2) O-SiO(2) optical coatings prepared from colloidal suspensions. 
Single layer coatings of Al(2)O(3).H(2)O have been prepared on fused silica and BK-7 substrates from aqueous colloidal suspensions of hydrated alumina at room temperature.  These coatings were porous and had a refractive index of ~1.44.  Multilayer, high reflectivity, dielectric coatings were also prepared by laying down quarterwave-thick, alternating coats of this alumina with silica, also prepared from colloidal suspension, and having a refractive index of 1.22.  To achieve 99% reflectivity, 30-35 layers were required.  Single shot, laser damage threshold measurements at 1064 nm wavelength with a pulse length of 10 ns were carried out on both the single layer and multilayer system.  The thresholds averaged 21 and 12 J/cm(2), respectively.