Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) Windows

Optical windows are used to allow optical radiation to pass from one environment to another without allowing other elements of these environments to mix. And it does not change the wavelength distribution of the beam, the transmitted wave front, nor does it scatter any of the light out of the beam.

Calcium fluoride has a low absorption coefficient and high damage threshold, making these windows a good choice for use with free-space lasers.

Sherlan Optics offers calcium fluoride (CaF₂) High-Precision Windows either uncoated or with a broadband anti-reflective coating. The uncoated windows provide high transmission from the ultraviolet (180 nm) to the infrared (8 μm). The AR-coated windows feature an antireflection coating on both sides that provides increased transmission within the 1.65 – 3.0 µm specified wavelength range. Given its low absorption coefficient and high damage threshold, uncoated calcium fluoride crystal is a popular choice for use with excimer lasers. CaF₂ windows are also commonly used in cryogenically cooled thermal imaging systems.

Sherlan Optics offers High-Precision Windows fabricated from various substrate materials for use in a large variety of laser and industrial applications. We also offer laser windows, which have wavelength-specific AR coatings centered around commonly used laser wavelengths.