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CaF₂ Crystal

POC-OC-122472-CaF₂ Crystal

  • Wide transmission range from 130 nm to 10 µm.
  • High UV and IR transmittance (>94% @ 0.3 µm to 7 µm).
  • Exceptional optical properties with low refractive index and absorption.
  • High resistance to thermal and mechanical shocks.
  • Suitable for high-power laser applications due to high damage threshold.

Customizable Components Available for This Material to Meet Your Specific Needs!

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General Description

Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) crystals exhibit exceptional optical and mechanical properties, making them ideal for applications requiring high UV and IR transmittance. These crystals are isotropic, providing low absorption and low refractive index, and are widely utilized in scientific and industrial applications. With high resistance to thermal and mechanical shocks, CaF₂ is frequently used in high-power laser systems, optical windows, and lenses. Its wide transmission range of 130 nm to 10 µm enables diverse uses in ultraviolet, visible, and infrared fields. The availability of monocrystalline and polycrystalline forms enhances its adaptability across various industries. Moreover, CaF₂ is a preferred choice for spectroscopic instruments, high-energy detectors, and advanced astronomical devices.

General Application and Examples

  1. Laser Optics:
    CaF₂ crystals are highly efficient for high-power laser systems due to their high damage threshold, low absorption, and thermal resistance. They are widely used as laser windows and optical components in industrial and scientific lasers.
  2. Infrared Applications:
    The crystal’s high transmittance in the IR range (up to 10 µm) makes it an excellent material for IR thermography windows, IR optics, and optical sensor systems. Its applications include medical diagnostics, surveillance, and remote sensing.
  3. Astronomical Observations:
    The superior optical clarity of CaF₂ crystals has been critical in developing astronomical equipment such as telescopes, allowing for enhanced imaging and spectral analysis.
  4. Spectroscopy:
    CaF₂ serves as an optimal material in spectroscopic instruments, including UV and IR spectrometers, due to its broad transmission range and chemical stability.
  5. Precision Optics:
    Used in high-performance lenses, prisms, and optical components for photography, camera lenses, and high-precision optical assemblies.

Chemical and Structural Properties

PropertyDetails
Crystal StructureCubic System
Cleavage Plane(111)
Density3.18 g/cm³
Melting Point1360°C
Molecular Weight78.08
Thermal Conductivity11.72 W/m*K at 286 K
Thermal Expansion18.1 × 10⁻⁶/°C at 273 K
Hardness (Mohs)4.5
dn/dT-10.6 × 10⁻⁶/°C
Solubility0.0017 g at 20°C

Optical Properties

PropertyDetails
Transmission Range0.13 µm to 9 µm
Transmittance>94% (0.3 µm to 7 µm)
Refractive Index1.39908 at 5 µm
Reflection Loss5.4% at 5 µm (both surfaces)
Absorption Coefficient0.03 @ 2.6 µm to 2.9 µm

Standard Fabrication Specifications

SpecificationDetails
Surface Quality (Scratch/Dig)20/10
Surface Flatnessλ/4 at 633 nm
Clear Aperture>85%
Maximum Diameter375 mm
Edge Chamfer<0.25 × 45°
Length Tolerance±0.1 mm
CoatingCustomizable

Spectrum Transmission Curve

Refer to the provided transmittance graph, which demonstrates high transmittance across the wavelength range of 0.13 to 9 µm, with peak performance in the UV and IR spectrum.

Coating Specification

  • AR-Coating: Anti-reflective coatings tailored for specific UV, VIS, and IR wavelengths.
  • Custom Coatings: Available upon request to meet user-specific requirements.
  • Adhesion Test: Compliant with MIL-C-675C military standards, an adhesion test involved applying a tape that meets LT-90 specifications onto the lens film layer. The tape was affixed fully and then removed vertically. This procedure was performed three times, resulting in no blistering or peeling.
  • Temperature Test: In line with MIL-C-675C specifications, test pieces were subjected to temperatures of -62±1℃ and 71±1℃. After maintaining them at room temperature (16℃~32℃) for two hours, the adhesion test was repeated, confirming no film detachment.
  • Abrasion Resistance Test: Conforming to MIL-C-675C and CCC-C-440 standards, the abrasion resistance test involved a gauze tester applying a minimum force of 1.0 lbs (0.45 kg) to the film. This was repeated 25 times with gauze widths of 1/4 inch (6.4mm) and 3/8 inch (9.5mm), ensuring no damage occurred to the film surface.
  • Humidity Test: Under MIL-C-675C criteria, the test piece was placed in a controlled temperature and humidity chamber set to 49 ±2℃ and 95%~100% humidity for 24 hours. The film remained intact, with no peeling, scratches, or other defects.
  • Solvent and Cleaning Testing: Following MIL-C-675C specifications, test pieces were exposed to room temperature conditions (16℃~32℃) and tested with acetone and alcohol for at least 10 minutes each. After air drying and subsequent cleaning with a cotton cloth soaked in alcohol, the film surface showed no signs of peeling or scratches.
  • Salt Spray Test: After 100 hours in a 35°C environment with a 5% saltwater concentration, the film showed no signs of damage.
DiameterThicknessCoatingPrice (USD)
50 mm10 mmAR (UV-VIS)220
75 mm20 mmAR (IR)350
100 mm25 mmUncoated400
Custom SizesAvailableUpon RequestQuoted

POC-OC-122472-CaF₂ Crystal

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