Wide Range of IR Substrates and Anti-Reflection Coatings

We offer a wide selection of IR substrates, such as Zinc Selenide (ZnSe), Calcium Fluoride (CaF2), Zinc Sulfide (ZnS), Fused Silica, Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Sapphire, Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2), Chalcogenides and GaAs, and provide multiple anti-reflection coating options to enhance the performance and durability of their IR optics. Avantier’s optics find applications in various fields, from high-power CO2 lasers to night-vision thermal imaging cameras, IR imaging, and spectroscopy.

• Optical Materials: Avantier uses a wide array of optical materials to ensure optimal performance in various applications. These materials include not only the standard IR substrates but also advanced optical materials such as chalcogenide glasses, which are known for their excellent transmission in the infrared spectrum and their ability to be molded into complex shapes.

Diverse Applications of Infrared Optics

Infrared optics find applications in various fields, ranging from high-power CO2 lasers operating at 10.6 μm to night-vision thermal imaging cameras (MWIR and LWIR bands), as well as IR imaging and spectroscopy. Our experienced team is well-equipped to provide comprehensive design support and consultation for your specific requirements. The infrared spectrum covers a wide range of wavelengths from about 0.7 µm to 1 mm, which is further divided into near-infrared (NIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and long-wave infrared (LWIR). Each of these sub-regions requires specific optical materials and coatings to achieve optimal performance.

For customers looking to select the ideal IR optics for their needs, Avantier suggests considering the substrate and anti-reflection coating that offer prime transmittance for the desired wavelength. It’s important to evaluate the thermal properties of the IR substrate, including the index gradient and coefficient of thermal expansion, to ensure compatibility with thermally volatile settings. Additionally, considering the index of refraction and dispersion can offer greater flexibility in system design.

Selecting the Ideal Infrared Optics for Your Needs

The infrared region spans three sub-regions: near infrared (NIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and far infrared (FIR). To make an optimal choice for your application, consider the substrate and anti-reflection coating that offer prime transmittance for your desired wavelength. For instance, germanium might be suitable for transmitting visible light in the MWIR, while sapphire may be ideal for NIR applications.

Considering Thermal Properties and Index of Refraction

Given the varying temperatures and potential heat exposure in many IR applications, it’s essential to evaluate the thermal properties of an IR substrate. Assess the index gradient and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) to ensure the substrate’s compatibility with thermally volatile settings. A high index gradient or CTE could negatively impact optical performance under extreme temperature fluctuations.

Exploring Index of Refraction and Dispersion

IR materials exhibit a wide range of index of refraction values. Germanium, for example, boasts an index of refraction of 4.0003, compared to MgF’s 1.413. This diversity enables greater flexibility in system design. Additionally, consider the dispersion, which measures the change in index concerning wavelength. A lower Abbe number (less than 55) indicates greater dispersion and classifies the material as flint, while a higher number signifies less dispersion and categorizes it as a crown material.

Avantier Benefits

• Custom coating: antireflection coatings (AR coatings) in visible, near-infrared, short-wave infrared, mid-wave infrared, long-wave infrared spectral ranges
• Cost-effective manufacturing
• Reliable: good performance in rugged environment with remarkable temperature change
• Sturdy: resistant to mechanical and thermal shocks
• All products compliant with ISO and MIL standards
• IR materials: Zinc selenide (ZnSe), Calcium Fluoride (CaF2), Zinc Sulfide (ZnS), Fused Silica, Silicon (Si), Germanium (Ge), Sapphire, Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2), Chalcogenides and GaAs
• Chalcogenide Glasses : Chalcogenide glasses are particularly valuable in IR optics due to their broad transmission range and ability to be molded into complex shapes. They are used in infrared imaging and other applications requiring precise control over light transmission and reflection.