Infrared glass

Chalcogenide glasses are a specialized class of optical materials made primarily from chalcogen elements like sulfur, selenium, and tellurium, combined with other elements such as arsenic, antimony, or gallium. These glasses are particularly noteworthy for their broad transmission range in the infrared (IR) spectrum, often extending from the near-infrared through to the mid- and far-infrared wavelengths. Unlike more common oxide-based glasses like fused silica, chalcogenide glasses are capable of transmitting IR light up to wavelengths of around 10–20 micrometers, making them ideal for applications like thermal imaging, IR spectroscopy, and fiber-optic communications in the IR range. They also offer other favorable optical and mechanical properties, including high refractive indices and lower dispersion. However, these glasses are typically more expensive to produce and may be sensitive to moisture or less chemically stable than their oxide-based counterparts. Nevertheless, the unique capabilities of chalcogenide glasses make them indispensable in specialized applications where IR transmission and performance are critical.

Infrared glass types/brands from different makers

Cross-reference

Composition AMI VITRON SCHOTT LightPath RPO
Ge33As12Se55 AMTIR-1 IG 2 IRG 22 OPTIR-1*
Ge30Sb13Se32Te25 IG 3 IRG 23*
Ge10As40Se50 IG 4 IRG 24
Ge28Sb12Se60 AMTIR-3* IG 5 IRG 25 BD-2 OPTIR-3*
As40Se60 AMTIR-2 IG 6 IRG 26 BD6
As40S60 AMTIR-6 IRG 27
(*) Out of production

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