An optical window is a flat, transparent optics that allows light to pass through without altering its wavelength or direction.
It is primarily used to isolate different environments while protecting sensitive optical systems.
You can choose the window that suits you based on the transmission characteristics of the material and the usage environment.
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The Substrate Proprities of the Optical Windows
The refractive indices and other characteristics of different base materials are all different, and the actual parameters will also vary:
| Material | Wavelength Range / Transmittance | Refractive Index (n, 589nm) | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| N-BK7 Optical Glass | Visible: >92% (350–2000 nm) | ~1.5168 | ~5 |
| UV Fused Silica | >90% (200–2500 nm) | ~1.458 | 5.5–6 |
| Sapphire (Al₂O₃) | 200–5000 nm | ~1.76 | 9 |
| Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) | 180–8000 nm | ~1.434 | 4 |
| Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) | 600–16000 nm | ~2.40 | 2 |
| Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) | 120–7000 nm | ~1.38 | 6 |
Types of the optical windows
N-BK7 Optical Glass Windows
- High transmission in visible spectrum, moderate hardness (~5 Mohs)
- Applications: Laboratory optics, imaging systems, general-purpose optical assemblies.
UV Fused Silica Windows
- Very low autofluorescence, wide spectral range (200–2500 nm)
- Applications: UV lasers, spectroscopy, high-precision optical instruments.
Sapphire Windows
- High hardness (9 Mohs), wide transmission (200–5000 nm)
- Applications: Harsh environments, aerospace optics, high-power laser protection, industrial sensors.
Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) Windows
- Soft (~4 Mohs), excellent transmission from 180–8000 nm
- Applications: UV spectroscopy, laser optics, infrared systems, lithography.
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) Windows
- Transmission 600–16000 nm, soft (2 Mohs)
- Applications: CO₂ laser systems, IR imaging, thermal optics.
Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) Windows
- Transmission 120–7000 nm, hardness ~6 Mohs
- Applications: UV optics, laser protection, optical instruments requiring broad spectrum transmission.
Why Choose Precision Optical Windows?
High-quality optical windows minimize signal loss, reduce scattering, and enhance the performance of advanced optical systems.
With options for custom coatings (AR, HR, beamsplitter), they can be tailored to specific laser wavelengths or application needs.
Chenyu offers customized services to meet all your needs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to consult our staff.
Applications
- Optical Windows for Laser Systems：Ideal for precision laser cutting, measurement, and research applications.
- Spectroscopy: Provide excellent transmission in the ultraviolet spectrum.
- Medical Imaging: Endoscopes, diagnostic imaging, and laser-based medical instruments
- Industrial Optics: Protect sensors, cameras, and laser systems in harsh manufacturing environments.
- Defense and Aerospace: Missile guidance systems, aerospace sensors, optical targeting devices, and space-based telescopes
