American Owned & Operated
Esco Optics is a leading manufacturer of custom and catalog optics, precision optical components, and ITAR optics in the United States.
IR materials have distinct properties that allow them to perform well in the infrared spectrum. IR Fused Silica, Germanium, Silicon, Sapphire, Magnesium Fluoride, Calcium Fluoride and Zinc Sulfide/Selenide each have strengths for infrared applications.
Optimum Transmission Range: |
Ideal Applications: LWIR - MWIR |
2 - 14μm |
Thermal imaging (when AR coated) |
Rugged optical situations |
Germanium has a dark grey smoky appearance with a refractive index of 4.024 with low optical dispersion. It has a considerable density with a Knoop Hardness (kg/mm2): 780.00 allowing it to perform well for field optics in rugged conditions.
Optimum Transmission Range: |
Ideal Applications: MWIR |
1.2 to 9μm |
NIR imaging, IR spectroscopy, MWIR detection systems |
Less dense than Ge or ZnSe |
Silicon has blue-gray appearance with a high thermal capacity that makes it ideal for laser mirrors and silicon wafers for the semiconductor industry. It has a refractive index of 3.42. Silicon components are used in electronic devices is because its electrical currents can pass via the silicon conductors much quicker compared to other conductors. AR coating is recommended for most applications.
Optimum Transmission Range: | Ideal Applications: |
0.6 to 18 μm |
CO2 lasers and thermometry and spectroscopy |
Lenses, windows, and FLIR systems | |
Zinc selenide is a light-yellow, solid compound comprising zinc and selenium. It is created by synthesis of Zinc vapour and H2 Se gas, forming as sheets on a graphite substrate. It is known for its low absorption rate and which allows for excellent uses for CO2 lasers.
Optimum Transmission Range: | Ideal Applications: LWIR - MWIR |
0.6 to 18 μm |
Visible and mid-wave or long-wave infrared sensors |
Structurally stronger and more chemically resistant than ZnSe | |
Zinc Sulfide is an excellent choice for infrared sensors it transmits well in the IR and visible spectrum. It is typically a cost effective choice over other IR materials.
Esco Optics is a leading manufacturer of custom and catalog optics, precision optical components, and ITAR optics in the United States.
As the leader for military and defense optics in the United States, Esco Optics adheres to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
ITAR registered and compliant, Esco manufactures ITAR optics for all of its customers with the strictest confidentiality.