Introduction to Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2)
Magnesium fluoride (MgF2) is a versatile and indispensable component in the field of optical materials. Renowned for its exceptional transparency across a wide wavelength range of 120 nm to 6.0 µm, MgF2 is a synthetic crystalline substrate widely used in both ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) technologies. This article delves into the properties, applications, and manufacturing processes of MgF2, highlighting products from MOK Optics, a leading manufacturer of UV-grade MgF2 windows.
Unique Properties of Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2)
Transparency and Durability
MgF2 is known for its high transmittance in the UV, visible, and infrared regions, making it ideal for optical applications. Its efficient light transmission in the deep UV and far-infrared range makes it particularly durable for harsh environments. This durability, combined with its resistance to chemical corrosion, laser damage, and mechanical shock, makes MgF2 an ideal material for a wide range of optical components.
Crystal Structure and Optical Properties
MgF2 belongs to the tetragonal crystal system and exhibits birefringence, which is crucial for polarizers in the ultraviolet band. MgF2’s crystal structure allows it to maintain high transmittance and stable chemical properties, making it ideal for fiber optic communications and military applications. MgF2’s refractive index of approximately 1.38 helps it effectively reduce chromatic aberration in optical systems.
MOK Optics: A Leader in MgF2 Windows
Product Specifications
MOK Optics specializes in producing ultraviolet-grade MgF2 windows with diameters up to 170 mm and crystal orientations including <001>, <100>, and <110>. These specifications ensure that the windows can meet the needs of a variety of applications, from precision imaging to signal transmission.
Dimensional Range and Tolerances
Dimensional Range: 2mm to 200mm
Dimensional Tolerance: ±0.02mm
These precise dimensions and tolerances demonstrate MOK Optics’ commitment to optical manufacturing quality and precision.
Surface Quality and Flatness
Light Transmittance: >90%
Surface Quality: Up to 10⁻⁵
Flatness: Up to λ/20@632.8nm
Such high standards ensure that the manufactured optical components possess superior quality, suitable for demanding applications in the scientific and technological fields.
Parallelism and Coating Options
Parallelism: Up to 30 seconds
Antireflective Coating: Available upon request
The availability of antireflective coatings further enhances the performance of MgF₂ windows, reducing surface reflection and increasing transmittance.
Applications of MgF2 in Optical Systems
Ultraviolet and Infrared Optics
MgF2 exhibits excellent transmittance in the ultraviolet and infrared bands, making it an ideal material for applications such as lasers, high-energy detectors, and imaging systems. Its ability to maintain stable performance under extreme conditions makes it invaluable in scientific research and military applications.
Meniscus Lenses and Wedge Lenses
MgF2 is also used to manufacture meniscus lenses and wedge lenses. Meniscus lenses, with their concave-convex design, effectively converge light in imaging applications. Wedge lenses are used to deflect beams, avoiding interference effects and thus improving the stability of laser output.
Conclusion
Magnesium fluoride (MgF2) is a cornerstone material in optics, offering unparalleled transparency and durability across a wide wavelength range. MOK Optics, with its precision manufacturing capabilities and unwavering commitment to quality, provides industry-leading MgF2 windows to meet the needs of a variety of scientific and technological applications.