Uncoated, Sodium Chloride Window

Description

Shape Optics’ Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Windows are high-quality optical components designed to provide excellent transmission from the ultraviolet (UV) to the infrared (IR) regions. These windows are particularly suitable for Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and other applications requiring a wide spectral range and high transmission.

Properties and Uses

NaCl windows are commonly used in FTIR spectroscopy due to their broad transmission range and cost-effectiveness. They are ideal for applications that require reliable infrared measurements over a large spectral range. However, NaCl is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can degrade its surface. Therefore, it is essential to protect these windows from exposure to moisture. They are also sensitive to thermal shock but can be used at temperatures up to 400°C.

General Specifications

• Material: Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
• Coating: Uncoated
• Edges: Fine Ground
• Bevel: Protective as needed
• Type: Protective Window

Physical Properties

• Density: 2.17 g/cm³
• Young’s Modulus: 39.98 GPa
• Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE): 44 x 10⁻⁶/°C

Mechanical Properties

• Knoop Hardness: 18.2 kg/mm²
• Poisson’s Ratio: 0.252
• Surface Flatness: λ/2
• Parallelism: < 3 arcmin

Chemical Properties

Sodium Chloride is hygroscopic and must be kept in a dry environment to maintain its performance. It has a solubility of 35.70 grams in 100 grams of water at 273K. This property requires careful handling and storage to prevent degradation from moisture.

Optical Properties

• Index of Refraction: 1.544 (varies between 1.4 and 1.6 over the spectral range)
• Abbe Number (νd): 42.89
• Surface Quality: 60-40 scratch-dig

Transmission Wavelength Range

NaCl windows provide excellent transmission from 250 nm to 16,000 nm, covering UV to IR spectra. This broad wavelength range makes them highly versatile for various optical applications, particularly in FTIR spectroscopy.

Shape Optics’ Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Windows are engineered to offer superior performance across a wide spectral range, making them ideal for FTIR spectroscopy and other demanding optical applications. Their excellent transmission, low cost, and broad wavelength coverage make them a valuable component in advanced optical systems. However, due to their hygroscopic nature, proper handling and storage in dry conditions are crucial to maintaining their performance.