An optical window us parallel, optically transparent component used to separate two distinct environments while maximizing light transmission is known as.With so many alternatives, choosing optical windows for UV/VIS or IR spectroscopy might be difficult.
UV Optical Window.
When it comes to choosing optical windows for medical, defence or industrial applications, UV windows are popularly uses. The standard material used is a high purity fused silica as transmits high percentages of light deep into the UV range below 200nm. Apart from it, it also provides high levels of parallelism, low scattering, low distortion and laser-grade surface quality.Additional UV coatings or Anti-Reflective (AR) coatings can be used to maximize the transmission properties in this range and can be applied to one or both surfaces.
Visible Windows (VIS)
VIS are a more cost-effective, specific option for use in the 400-700nm visible light range. A UV window would work in similar situations, but Optical Glass is a more specific and cost-effective option. The material most commonly referred to as Optical Glass is N-BK7, which has a transmission range of 350-2,000nm.
A VIS window is a common tool in imaging and display systems, as well as a standard base substrate for mirror and filter coatings. These windows, which have a high index of refraction, high transmission, and a high standard of material purity, are frequently a critical component in various optical systems. Furthermore, N-BK7 has a high level of stain resistance IR.
IR Windows
The extended family of IR windows encompasses the largest and most frequently used assortment of optical windows. Each particular window has its own unique property and transmission profile, which are needed for specialized applications.
Barium Fluoride (BaF2)
The extended family of IR windows includes the most diverse and widely used range of optical windows. Each window has its own distinct property and transmission profile, both of which are required for specialised applications. BaF2 has excellent transmission from 200nm to 12m and high-energy radiation resistance. The material can withstand temperatures of up to 800°C, but it may exhibit reduced UV transmission and surface damage in high moisture environments. Its main properties include high-energy radiation resistance and a low index of refraction. AR coatings are not always required.
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) is ideal for UV 200nm to IR 7m applications. It has a low absorption and a high damage threshold. It is an excellent choice for FTIR analysis, excimer laser systems, spectroscopic windows, and thermal imaging systems. AR coatings are used to increase transmission for IR or UV wavelengths, as well as for other specified orientations cut to 100> 110> 111>. VUV and Raman grades are among the additional optical grades of mono crystalline and poly crystalline CaF2.
Germanium windows
Germanium windows are a good choice for infrared applications at a wide range of wavelengths, including use in low-power CO2 lasers. Germanium has a low dispersion, making it ideal for imaging applications. The windows have an AR coating that allows for high transmission from 3 to3 to 12 µm. It is ideal for low power CO2 laser application
Sapphire (Al2O3)- Sapphire is a good generalist with a transmission range of 150nm-4.5m, but where sapphire truly shines is in its material robustness. Sapphire optics can be used in almost any harsh environment and will withstand the punishment. Sapphire will take almost anything thrown at it and ask for seconds, from extreme resistance to thermal conductivity, a high dielectric constant, and chemical resistance. Only second to diamond in terms of material hardness, but unlike diamond, it can be made extremely thin, which improves transmission even further.
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe)
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe)- The primary application for a ZnSe window is in a high power Co2 laser system. Due to high thermal shock resistance, low absorption coefficient, and low dispersion properties, it is possible to concentrate high energy radiation and bring it closer to the user.
Optical windows are used for a range of applications varying from military defense to scientific experimentation, manufacturing, lasers and more. Most reputed manufacturers provide customized solutions and help in choosing the right products to suit your applications.
