Windows play an important role in optical systems, both in terms of maximising transmission and reducing reflection, and also in protecting optical systems and electronic sensors from everything the environment throws at them.
When environmental conditions are excessively harsh, optical windows need to up their game, and this means choosing a material that offers exceptional robustness. Step in sapphire.
Why sapphire windows?
Sapphire (Al203) is an incredibly durable crystal material, second only to diamond in the hardest natural substance ratings.
Optical components crafted from sapphire are renowned for outperforming and outlasting the likes of fused silica and quartz within a comparable transmission range.
What are sapphire windows used for?
Due to their high structural strength, sapphire optical windows can be made a great deal thinner than other optical windows, which results in improved transmission. Sapphire optical windows are useful through a wide wavelength range of 0.15 to 5.5µm and are resistant to UV radiation darkening.
Applications where the likes of high temperature, high pressure, high thermal loads, scratch and wear resistance, corrosive atmospheres and low friction must be taken into consideration all lend themselves to sapphire windows. Furnace viewports, submersible ROVs, gas and oil analysis, barcode readers and IR analytical devices all typically use sapphire windows.
Industry-wise, the military and defence, space, medical and research sectors will naturally gravitate towards sapphire windows due to their exceptionally superior performance and reliability in mission critical applications.