Key Features:
- Wide transmission range from vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) to infrared (IR)
- High laser damage threshold
- Excellent resistance to thermal and mechanical shock
- Outstanding chemical durability
- High optical homogeneity
Description: Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) crystals are known for their broad transmission range, spanning from the vacuum ultraviolet (0.13 µm) to the infrared region (10 µm). This makes them an excellent material for UV and IR optics. CaF₂ windows exhibit a high laser damage threshold, making them ideal for laser optics, molecular imaging, and spectroscopy applications. The material’s exceptional resistance to thermal and mechanical shock, along with its superior chemical durability, ensures reliable performance in various demanding environments. CaF₂ crystals are widely used in UV and IR imaging systems, telescopes, thermal imaging cameras, and other optical devices.
Physical Properties:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Density | 3.18 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | 158 kg/mm² (Knoop) |
| Melting Point | 1418°C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 9.71 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 18.85 x 10⁻⁶ /°C |
Optical Properties:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Transmission Range | 0.13-10 µm |
| Refractive Index | 1.399 @ 7 µm |
| Absorption Coefficient | < 0.001 cm⁻¹ @ 10.6 µm |
| Optical Density (OD) | 0.5 |
| Transmission (%) | > 90% @ 7 µm |
Standard Specifications:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Diameter | Up to 6 inches |
| Thickness | 0.5 to 10 mm |
| Surface Quality | 60/40 Scratch/Dig (MIL-PRF-13830B) |
| Surface Flatness | λ/2 @ 632.8 nm |
| Parallelism | < 3 arc minutes |
| Perpendicularity | < 5 arc minutes |
| Coating | Custom designs available |
Other Properties:
- High mechanical strength
- Excellent thermal stability
- High resistance to environmental conditions
Applications:
- UV and IR optics for imaging systems
- Laser optics and spectroscopy
- Molecular imaging and microscopy
- Thermal imaging and infrared sensing
- Astronomical telescopes and observation equipment
Processing and Handling:
- CaF₂ crystals require careful handling to avoid surface damage and contamination.
- Use gloves or finger cots when handling CaF₂ components.
- Store in a clean, dry environment with temperature control to prevent thermal shock.
- Ensure proper cleaning procedures to maintain optical quality.
Why Choose Shape Optics:
- We provide high-quality CaF₂ crystals with precise specifications and excellent optical properties.
- Our crystals undergo stringent quality control to ensure reliability and performance in demanding applications.
- Customization options available to meet specific requirements.
Shape Optics Strength and Capabilities:
- Expertise in crystal growth and fabrication techniques.
- Advanced metrology and inspection facilities to ensure superior product quality.
- Comprehensive support and consultation services to assist in the integration of CaF₂ crystals into various optical systems.
- Commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of optical engineering.
