Uncoated, Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) Window

Description

Shape Optics’ Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) Windows are high-performance optical components designed to provide broad transmission across the infrared spectrum. Known for their toughness and durability, these windows are particularly suitable for demanding applications such as thermal imaging, forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems, and CO2 laser applications. GaAs windows are also chemically stable and water-insoluble, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.

Properties and Uses

GaAs windows transmit infrared light from 1 to 16 μm and are opaque in the visible spectrum. Their high durability and resistance to harsh conditions make them suitable for laser material processing applications where dust, metallic, or abrasive particle debris is expected. Additionally, GaAs windows are used in thermal imaging and FLIR systems due to their excellent infrared transmission and toughness.

General Specifications

• Material: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)
• Clear Aperture: 85%
• Coating: Uncoated
• Edges: Fine Ground
• Bevel: Protective as needed
• Type: Protective Window

Physical Properties

• Density: 5.32 g/cm³
• Young’s Modulus: 85 GPa
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE): 5.39 x 10⁻⁶/°C (0 to +30°C)

Mechanical Properties

• Knoop Hardness: 750 kg/mm²
• Poisson’s Ratio: 0.31
• Surface Flatness: λ/10 @ 10.6 μm
• Parallelism: < 3 arcmin

Chemical Properties

Gallium Arsenide is chemically stable and insoluble in water, making it durable in various environmental conditions. It is, however, hazardous and should be handled with gloves to avoid contact. GaAs is stable against most chemicals except strong acids, which necessitates careful handling in such environments.

Optical Properties

• Index of Refraction: 3.293 @ 7 μm, 3.279 @ 10 μm, 3.267 @ 12 μm
• Surface Quality: 60-40 scratch-dig

Transmission Wavelength Range

GaAs windows offer broad transmission from 1 μm to 16 μm, covering a wide infrared spectrum. This range makes them suitable for various infrared applications, including thermal imaging, FLIR systems, and laser processing.

Shape Optics’ Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) Windows are engineered to deliver superior performance across a broad infrared spectral range. Their toughness, durability, and excellent infrared transmission make them ideal for advanced optical systems in harsh environments. Proper handling and storage are essential due to the hazardous nature of GaAs.