OP8327 Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated Description

Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) Windows, measuring 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, are recognised for their exceptional optical clarity and low refractive index. They provide outstanding UV to IR transmittance, making them a versatile choice for various spectroscopy, imaging, and laser-based applications. Due to their excellent thermal stability and high laser damage threshold, these uncoated CaF₂ windows efficiently handle demanding operating conditions while minimising scattering and absorption.

Manufactured under stringent quality standards, each window is polished to precise tolerances, ensuring consistently flat and defect-free surfaces. CaF₂’s non-hygroscopic nature helps maintain long-term performance, as it is resistant to moisture and chemical corrosion. Whether used for scientific research or industrial purposes, these windows deliver reliable performance and durability, meeting the exacting requirements of modern optical instrumentation.

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated Applications

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated, are prized for their superior optical clarity, broad transmission spectrum (UV to infrared), and high damage threshold. These durable windows excel in applications requiring minimal scatter, low refractive index, and resistance to thermal shock. Their versatility and chemical inertness also make them an ideal choice for challenging environments, ensuring reliable performance across diverse industries and research settings.

1. Industrial Applications

·        Application 1: Serves as a protective window in high-power laser systems, minimising wavefront distortion and handling intense energy output.

·        Application 2: Ideal for infrared imaging in process monitoring, thanks to its broad spectral transparency and chemical durability.

·        Application 3: Offers excellent resistance to harsh chemicals, making it suitable as a viewport in corrosive industrial settings.

2. Research Applications

·        Application 1: Enables precise spectroscopy measurements across UV to IR ranges, ensuring minimal absorption and scattering.

·        Application 2: Supports high-intensity laser experiments due to its robust thermal properties and high damage threshold.

·        Application 3: Facilitates optical testing and calibration where low refractive index and stable performance are crucial.

3. Commercial Applications

·        Application 1: Used in advanced optical instrumentation for medical diagnostics, delivering clear imaging and reducing signal loss.

·        Application 2: Enhances performance in laser-based beauty equipment, leveraging its durability and broad transmission range.

·        Application 3: Serves as a protective window in specialised consumer electronics, offering reliable clarity and robustness.

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated Packaging

These 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm uncoated Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) windows are securely nestled in foam-lined containers with moisture-resistant seals. Each unit is shipped in a low-humidity environment to prevent contamination and preserve optical clarity. A dust-free bag and anti-static sleeve provide further protection. Optional custom labeling, specialised trays, or vacuum-sealed packaging can be arranged upon request to meet specific handling requirements.

Packaging: Vacuum sealed, Wooden Box, or Customised.

Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated FAQs

Q1: What are the key material properties of Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated?

A1: Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows measuring 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm exhibit low refractive index (~1.43 in the IR region) and high transparency across UV to IR wavelengths (approximately 130 nm to 11 µm). They possess excellent thermal stability, with a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion (18.85 × 10^-6/K). With a density of 3.18 g/cm³ and a Knoop hardness of about 158, these windows deliver robust optical performance and reliable durability.

Q2: How should this product be handled and stored?

A2: Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows are relatively brittle and should be handled with clean, lint-free gloves to avoid scratches or contamination. They must be stored in a dry, dust-free environment with temperature and humidity control. Due to their relatively low hardness compared to other optical materials, caution should be taken to prevent contact with hard surfaces. Cleaning should be undertaken with gentle solvents and non-abrasive wipes to maintain optimal optical clarity.

Q3: Which quality standards and certifications apply to Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm, Uncoated?

A3: Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows of these dimensions often comply with established ISO 10110 specifications for optical components and are produced under quality management systems certified to ISO 9001. Additional standards such as MIL-PRF-13830B may also apply to surface figure, scratch-dig, and other optical criteria. Both material purity and dimensional tolerances are carefully monitored to ensure consistent transmission, minimal wavefront distortion, and adherence to rigorous industry benchmarks for optical performance.

Related Information

1. Manufacturing Process

Producers of Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) Windows often begin their work by growing high-purity crystal ingots under carefully controlled conditions. These crystals are then precision sliced to obtain the desired 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm dimensions, ensuring that each piece retains its inherent transparency and low refractive index. Polishing is a critical step in this process, as it eliminates surface imperfections and prepares the calcium fluoride substrate for optimal optical performance. During these stages, constant temperature monitoring and contamination control are maintained to preserve material integrity.

Throughout the assembly phase, uncoated CaF2 Windows are subjected to thorough inspections for microscopic stress fractures and surface flaws. Engineers use ultraviolet and infrared imaging techniques to identify any subtle imperfections that could compromise optical clarity. After passing these rigorous evaluations, the windows are cleaned in controlled environments to remove any trace contaminants, guaranteeing that their natural transmittance and minimal scattering properties are preserved for high-precision optical use.

2. Applications in Advanced Industries

Advanced sectors frequently leverage uncoated Calcium Fluoride Windows for specialised beam delivery systems that demand exceptional light transmission and low absorption. In infrared spectroscopy, for example, the 20 mm x 20 mm x 0.5 mm dimension is ideal for fitting into compact instruments targeting precise measurement of molecular structures. These windows also function effectively in high-powered laser environments, where thermal conductivity and damage thresholds are essential considerations.

Uncoated CaF2 Windows find further adoption in photovoltaic research, semiconductor lithography, and hyperspectral imaging devices, each relying on superior optical properties and minimal dispersion. The material’s natural resistance to chemical corrosion and mechanical stress supports consistent performance across varied atmospheric conditions, making these windows a reliable choice for mission-critical applications.