Barium Fluoride Optical Window
Barium Fluoride (BaF₂) Optical Windows are precision infrared optical components manufactured from high-purity single crystal BaF₂ material. With broadband transmission from approximately 0.2–12 μm, low absorption and low refractive index, BaF₂ windows provide excellent UV-to-infrared optical performance. Chenyu Optics manufactures BaF₂ optical windows uncoated or with UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR, MWIR AR and LWIR AR coatings.
Barium Fluoride Optical Window Overview
Barium Fluoride (BaF₂) Optical Windows are precision infrared optical components manufactured from high-purity single crystal BaF₂ material.
With broadband transmission from approximately 0.2–12 μm, low absorption and low refractive index, BaF₂ windows provide excellent UV-to-infrared optical performance. Due to their wide spectral transmission range, barium fluoride optical windows are widely used in UV spectroscopy, infrared imaging systems, thermal optical systems, laser applications and scientific optical instruments.
Chenyu Optics supports custom BaF₂ window manufacturing according to customer drawings, including custom diameter, thickness and coating design for prototype and repeat production.
Key Advantages of Barium Fluoride Optical Window
UV Spectroscopy & Infrared Imaging Systems
Barium fluoride optical windows are widely used for broadband UV-to-infrared transmission in spectroscopy systems, infrared imaging equipment and thermal optical setups.
Typical Specifications of Barium Fluoride Optical Window
| Material | Barium Fluoride (BaF₂), Single Crystal |
|---|---|
| Optical Function | UV-IR transmission window |
| Transmission Range | Approx. 0.2 – 12 μm |
| Refractive Index | Approx. 1.46 @ 1 μm |
| Absorption | Low |
| Density | Approx. 4.89 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | Mohs approx. 3 |
| Hygroscopicity | Slight; avoid prolonged moisture exposure |
| Surface Flatness | λ/10 @ 633 nm |
| Surface Quality | 20-10 / 40-20 scratch-dig |
Spectral Transmission Curve (Typical)
Why Choose Chenyu Optics for Barium Fluoride Optical Window
Chenyu Optics focuses on drawing-based precision crystal window manufacturing for UV, infrared and broadband optical systems. We support prototype verification, small-batch production and repeat manufacturing for non-standard BaF₂ windows.
Manufacturing Capability for Barium Fluoride Optical Window
Precision Polishing
Careful grinding and polishing procedures suited to soft, moisture-sensitive BaF₂ crystal material.
Optical Coating
UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR, MWIR AR and LWIR AR coating options for broadband UV-IR applications.
Inspection & Packaging
Dimensional inspection, surface review, optical performance checking and low-humidity protective packaging before shipment.
Custom Manufacturing Options for Barium Fluoride Optical Window
Dimensions & Geometry
Custom diameter and thickness can be manufactured according to customer drawings, with standard or custom window shapes.
Surface & Mechanical Quality
Surface flatness, surface quality and edge treatment can be selected according to optical performance requirements, with attention to the material's mechanical softness and moisture sensitivity.
Coating & Wavelength Design
Uncoated, UV AR, VIS AR, NIR AR, MWIR AR, LWIR AR and custom AR coatings can be specified for UV, visible, or infrared applications.
Barium Fluoride Window Material Comparison
| Barium Fluoride (BaF₂) | Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) | Sapphire | Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission | UV to IR, approx. 0.2 – 12 μm | UV to MWIR, approx. 0.13 – 8.0 μm | UV to MWIR, commonly 0.2 – 5.5 μm | Deep UV to IR, approx. 0.12 – 7.5 μm |
| Refractive Index | Approx. 1.46 @ 1 μm | Approx. 1.43 @ 1 μm | Approx. 1.76 | Approx. 1.38, low index |
| Mechanical Notes | Soft, slight hygroscopicity, avoid prolonged moisture exposure | Relatively soft and brittle, low hygroscopicity | Very hard and chemically durable | Relatively soft and brittle, low to moderate hygroscopicity |
| Typical Use | Broadband UV-IR spectroscopy, thermal imaging | UV spectroscopy, excimer laser optics | Protective windows, harsh environment optics | Deep UV optics, beam expansion, laser divergence control |
Applications of Barium Fluoride Optical Window
UV Spectroscopy Systems
Broadband windows for ultraviolet spectroscopic measurement.
Infrared Imaging Systems
Broadband transmission for infrared imaging applications.
Thermal Imaging Equipment
UV-to-IR windows for thermal optical systems.
Laser Optical Systems
Broadband windows for laser optical setups.
Scientific Research Equipment
Precision windows for research and laboratory optical setups.
Infrared Detection Systems
Reliable broadband transmission for detection instruments.
Barium Fluoride Optical Window FAQ
What is the transmission range of BaF₂ optical windows?
Barium fluoride optical windows typically provide broadband transmission from approximately 0.2–12 μm.
Why is BaF₂ used for UV and infrared applications?
BaF₂ offers wide spectral transmission, low absorption, and good performance from ultraviolet to infrared wavelengths.
Are BaF₂ windows suitable for thermal imaging systems?
Yes. BaF₂ windows can be used in infrared and thermal optical systems depending on wavelength requirements.
Can BaF₂ optical windows be customized?
Yes. Size, thickness, surface quality, and AR coatings can be customized according to application requirements.
What information should I provide for a quotation?
Please provide diameter, thickness, surface flatness, surface quality, coating requirement, quantity and drawing if available.
Where can I learn more about infrared optical materials?
Additional infrared optical material information can be found from Edmund Optics.
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Need Custom Barium Fluoride Optical Windows?
Send us your drawing, diameter, thickness, coating requirements and quantity. Chenyu Optics will review the optical and mechanical specifications and provide a suitable BaF₂ window manufacturing suggestion.