Chalcogenide Lenses

Chalcogenide materials are ideal for mid IR optics due to their wide transmission range from 0.5μm to 25μm, low refractive index temperature coefficient (dN/dT), low dispersion, and versatile glass compositions. 

With excellent infrared transmission in both the 3-5µm and 8-12µm bands, these lenses excel in IR applications. Their high refractive index enables compact optical system designs, which is crucial for space-constrained environments. Avantier’s chalcogenide spherical and aspherical lenses leverage these advantages to deliver high-performance solutions for a wide range of applications. Moreover, compared to materials like germanium (Ge) and zinc selenide (ZnSe), chalcogenides offer higher production efficiency, reducing both costs and the reliance on scarce resources like Ge

Chalcogenide Lenses
Chalcogenide Lenses

Key Benefits of Chalcogenide Glasses

Chalcogenide glass from Group 16 (oxygen O, sulfur S, selenium Se, tellurium Te, and polonium Po) offers exceptional properties for infrared optics. Its superior transmission, high refractive index, and nonlinearity make it a compelling alternative to traditional materials like germanium.

  • Wideband IR Transmission: Ideal for thermal imaging, sensing, and spectroscopy, covering 3-5µm and 8-12µm bands.
  • High Refractive Index: Enables compact, efficient optical systems, crucial in space-constrained applications.
  • High Nonlinearity: Perfect for nonlinear photonic devices and circuits.
  • Low Temperature Coefficient: Maintains performance across temperature variations, ideal for athermalized lenses.
  • Reliable Machinability: Easily shaped into custom spherical and aspheric lenses.

Applications

Avantier’s chalcogenide lenses find applications in infrared imaging, photonic integrated circuits, sensors, laser optics, and materials science. Offering cost-effective alternatives to germanium, these lenses provide high precision and quality. Additionally, chalcogenide windows excel in memory devices, optical fibers, and thermal systems due to their unique optical and electrical properties.

Sample Specifications for Chalcogenide Lenses

 

Size (mm)

Surface Precision

Coating Film

D 26.5

R1:73.215,

R2:23.118

1/4λ

Ravg <5.0% @3-12um

D 31.5

R1:231.532

R2:231.532

1/4λ

Ravg <5.0% @3-12um

 

  • Wide wavelength range covering MWIR (3-5µm) and LWIR (8-12µm)
  • Customizable with various lens forms (spherical or aspheric)
Chalcogenide Lens compared to a coin
Chalcogenide Lens compared to a coin

Custom Solutions

Avantier offers high-performance,custom-designed chalcogenide lenses to meet specific research needs. Additionally, this series can be processed using conventional grinding and polishing techniques, single point diamond turning, or precision molding technology, making it suitable for your specific requirements. Our expertise ensures superior optical clarity, durability, and reliable performance.

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