Material Overview:

Silicon (Si) is one of the hardest minerals and widely used optical materials for applications in the near-infrared (NIR) to mid-wave infrared (MWIR) spectral range. Its excellent mechanical and optical properties make it ideal for demanding applications in the infrared spectrum. Silicon is typically used in the 1 µm to 6 µm wavelength range, with optimal performance in the 3 µm to 5 µm band.

Key Features:

• Wide Transmission Range:
  Silicon windows provide excellent transmission from the NIR (~1 µm) to MWIR (~6 µm), making them suitable for a range of optical systems and detectors.

• Doping for Improved Performance:
  Optical-grade silicon is typically doped with 5 to 40 ohm cm to reduce absorption within the transmission waveband, ensuring higher clarity and efficiency in optical systems.

• Low Refractive Index and Density:
  Compared to germanium, silicon has a lower refractive index (approximately 3.42 at 3 µm) and density (2.33 g/cm³), allowing for lighter optical designs without compromising performance.

• High Durability:
  Silicon is renowned for its hardness and resistance to thermal stress, making it highly durable for rugged applications, such as in harsh environments or military-grade systems.

Applications:

• MWIR Windows:
  Silicon windows are particularly well-suited for use in the 3 µm to 5 µm waveband, which is critical for detecting radiation from sources at black body temperatures around 700K. This includes the detection of muzzle flashes from firearms and military equipment, such as sniper rifles and mortar pieces.

• Optical Filters Substrate:
  Silicon serves as an ideal substrate for optical filters in IR systems due to its excellent mechanical properties and ability to withstand high temperatures.

Quality Assurance:

• Precision Testing:
  Every silicon window component is individually tested by skilled technicians in our advanced metrology lab to ensure compliance with stringent quality standards. The precise measurement and inspection processes guarantee optimal performance in critical applications.

Customization Options:

• AR Coatings:
  Special anti-reflective (AR) coatings can be applied to silicon windows to enhance transmission efficiency and reduce surface reflection losses. These coatings are specifically designed for the NIR and MWIR wavebands to maximize optical performance.

• DLC Coatings:
  Diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings are available for added durability, offering superior hardness and scratch resistance, particularly in environments where high surface protection is required.

• Custom Sizes & Mounting:
  Silicon windows can be edged down to smaller sizes for specialized applications. They can also be mounted into cells, providing ready-to-use components for optical systems.

Applications in Industry:

• Military & Defense:
  Silicon windows are used in infrared imaging and targeting systems for the detection of heat signatures, such as muzzle flashes and explosions, in critical defense systems.

• Aerospace:
  Their lightweight and durable characteristics make silicon windows suitable for aerospace applications, particularly in environments where weight is a key consideration.

• Scientific & Industrial IR Systems:
  Silicon windows are also widely used in spectroscopy, thermal imaging, and environmental monitoring systems, ensuring high performance in both research and industrial applications.