Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) is a highly versatile optical material that is transparent across a broad spectral range, extending from the ultraviolet (UV) at 180 nm to the infrared (IR) at 8.0 µm. Its wide transmission range makes it an invaluable material for various optical applications, particularly where broadband transparency is required. CaF2 is also known for its mechanical robustness and environmental stability, making it suitable for use in demanding environments.

Material Properties 

CaF2 possesses a unique combination of optical, mechanical, and thermal properties that make it suitable for use in both standard and specialized optical systems. It exhibits low refractive index and low dispersion, which contribute to minimizing chromatic aberrations in lenses and other optical elements. Additionally, CaF2 is relatively resistant to thermal expansion and can maintain its structural integrity under varying temperature conditions, further enhancing its suitability for use in high-precision optical applications.

Product Grades

MOK Optics offers CaF2 in several specialized grades tailored to meet the needs of different applications:

Excimer Grade CaF2

This grade is designed for use in excimer laser systems, where the material’s exceptional UV transparency and high damage threshold are critical. Excimer grade CaF2 ensures minimal absorption and scattering at the deep ultraviolet (DUV) wavelengths, making it ideal for high-power laser applications.

Vacuum VUV Grade CaF2

 This grade is optimized for vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) applications, offering superior transmission at the shortest wavelengths. It is particularly suited for use in space-based or other vacuum environments where standard optical materials would be prone to degradation.

UV Grade CaF2

This grade is selected for its excellent performance in the ultraviolet spectrum. UV grade CaF2 is commonly used in lithography, UV spectroscopy, and other applications requiring high transmission in the UV range.

IR Polycrystal CaF2

For infrared applications, IR polycrystal CaF2 provides excellent transmission from the mid-IR to the far-IR. This material is particularly useful in thermal imaging, IR spectroscopy, and other applications where broad IR transparency is essential.

Applications

CaF2’s broad transmission range and stability make it a preferred material in various optical systems, including:

Laser Optics

CaF2 is used in lenses, windows, and prisms within laser systems, particularly those operating in the UV and IR ranges, where its low absorption and high damage threshold are advantageous.

Spectroscopy

CaF2’s transparency in both UV and IR regions makes it suitable for use in spectroscopic instruments, enabling the analysis of materials across a wide spectral range.

Thermal Imaging

In IR polycrystal form, CaF2 is commonly used in thermal imaging systems, where its ability to transmit infrared radiation with minimal loss is crucial for accurate imaging.

Astronomy

CaF2 is used in telescopes and other astronomical instruments due to its ability to transmit light with minimal distortion across a wide range of wavelengths, making it ideal for capturing images of celestial objects.

Environmental and Mechanical Stability

CaF2 is also known for its resilience in harsh environments. It is resistant to moisture, acids, and other corrosive substances, which contributes to its longevity and reliability in various applications. Additionally, its low thermal expansion coefficient ensures that it can operate effectively in environments with significant temperature fluctuations without compromising performance.

In summary, MOK Optics provides high-quality CaF2 in various specialized grades, each optimized for different applications ranging from UV to IR. The material’s broad transmission range, mechanical durability, and environmental stability make it an indispensable component in advanced optical systems.