Optical Windows
Optical windows are transparent components made of materials like glass or crystal that are used to protect and control the flow of light in optical systems. IR windows and optics for use in FTIR Spectroscopy and CO2 lasers. This includes discs, rectangular plates and various other geometries.
In various fields, optical windows serve many purposes. They act as protective barriers, shielding sensitive optical components from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and contaminants. Additionally, they enable the transmission of light while minimizing distortion, reflection, and absorption, thus maintaining the integrity of the optical system.
Optical windows are employed in a wide range of applications, including scientific research, industrial manufacturing, aerospace, defense, and telecommunications. They are utilized in optical instruments like cameras, microscopes, telescopes, lasers, and sensors. By providing a stable optical interface, optical windows facilitate accurate measurements, imaging, and analysis of light, enabling advancements in numerous fields.
Optical windows come in many shapes and sizes but a major factor is their material. The types of materials that an optical window is constructed from dictate the wavelengths (measured in nm) that they can view. In IR It is extremely important that selecting the right material is done to avoid many a headache and a waste of money and time.
If you are having choice fatigue and are getting overwhelmed by all the options please check out our optical window guide.
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Windows
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Windows
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) is a commonly used material in FTIR spectroscopy that is best known as a cost-effective generalist. With excellent transmission over a large range, it is a good option for most FTIR applications. NaCl is sensitive to water and should not be used in samples that contain water. As such, these windows are frequently used in FTIR gas cells. While, Sodium Chloride is sensitive to thermal shocks, it can be used in temperatures up to 400ºC.
Firebird provides these in several uncoated stock configurations but can provide customized and coated to your specifications.
Sodium Chloride Windows: An Overview
Sodium chloride (NaCl) windows are a type of optical window commonly used in spectroscopic applications. They are made from high-purity NaCl crystal and have excellent transmission in the infrared region. In this article, we will provide an overview of NaCl windows, including their properties, uses, and maintenance.
Properties of NaCl Windows
NaCl windows have several properties that make them suitable for spectroscopic applications. These include:
High transmission: NaCl windows have high transmission in the infrared region, allowing for accurate measurements.
Low cost: NaCl is a common and relatively inexpensive material, making NaCl windows more affordable than other types of windows.
Mechanically stable: NaCl is mechanically stable and resistant to mechanical shock, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.
Easy to manufacture: NaCl windows are relatively easy to manufacture and can be produced in large quantities.
Uses of NaCl Windows
NaCl windows are commonly used in infrared spectroscopy, where they are placed in the sample compartment of the instrument. They are also used in other spectroscopic techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy and infrared microscopy. NaCl windows are particularly useful in applications that require high transmission in the infrared region, such as the analysis of inorganic compounds.
Maintenance of NaCl Windows
To maintain the optical properties of NaCl windows and ensure accurate measurements, it is important to clean them regularly. NaCl windows are sensitive to water and other chemicals, so care must be taken when cleaning them. It is recommended to use a microfiber cloth or lens tissue dampened with isopropyl alcohol or acetone to clean NaCl windows. Avoid using water, as it can react with the NaCl and cause cloudiness or etching. It is also important to store NaCl windows in a clean, dust-free environment to prevent contamination.
Conclusion
NaCl windows are an important component of spectroscopic instrumentation, providing high transmission in the infrared region and excellent optical properties. Regular maintenance is important to ensure accurate measurements and prolong the lifespan of NaCl windows. By following best practices for cleaning and storage, NaCl windows can provide reliable and accurate measurements for years to come.
NaCl Specs:
| Wavelength range: 250-20µm | Coating: Uncoated |
|---|---|
| Diameter tolerance: ±0.5mm | Surface Quality: 60/40 |
| Thickness tolerance: ±0.2mm | Paralellism: <5 arc minute |
| Clear Aperture: 90% | Density: 2.17g/cm3 | Melting point: 801ºC | Young's Modulus: (GPa): 39.98 | Coefficient of Thermal Expansion: 44 x 10-6/°C | Knoop Hardness: 18.2kg/mm2 |
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