Germanium Optics
Description
Sinoptix’s Optical Germanium Components are engineered for exceptional performance in infrared (IR) applications, particularly in the 8–14 µm thermal range. Germanium (Ge), a metalloid with a high refractive index (~4.0), provides outstanding IR transmission (1.8–23 µm), low optical dispersion, and minimal chromatic aberration. These properties make it an ideal material for use in thermal imaging, night vision, and IR sensing systems.
Available as windows, lenses, aspheres, and wafers, our Germanium components are manufactured to exacting tolerances, with optional Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) or Anti-Reflection (AR) coatings to enhance durability and improve transmittance. The DLC coating mimics diamond’s hardness while reducing surface reflection and protecting against mechanical damage.
Although not transparent in the visible spectrum—a beneficial feature in some IR-only applications—Germanium is sensitive to high temperatures, with degradation occurring above 100°C. It is also more brittle than silicon, requiring careful handling during integration.
Each component is customizable with precision polishing and machining to meet demanding optical and mechanical requirements, making Sinoptix Germanium optics an optimal choice for high-value IR optical systems.
Germanium Optics
Specifications |
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|---|---|
| Substrate Material: | Ge, CaF2, IR Grade CaF2, MgF2, BaF2, Si |
| Antireflection Coating: | Coated, Uncoated |
| Diameter: | 350 mm |
| Surface Quality: | 10-5 scratch-dig, 20-10 scratch-dig, 40-20 scratch-dig, 60-40 scratch-dig, 80-50 scratch-dig |
| Surface Flatness: | lambda/20, lambda/10, lambda/8, lambda/6, lambda/4, lambda/2, 1 lambda, Lambda/40, Other |
| Thickness: | 5 mm |
| Transmission Range: | 1.8 to 23 µm |
| Thermal IR Range: | 8–14 µm |
| Refractive Index: | ~4.0 |
| Optical Dispersion: | Low |
| DLC/AR Coating: | Available (optional) |
| Density: | 5.35 g/cm³ |
| Hardness: | 800 Knoop (MOHS 6) |
| Young’s Modulus: | 75.79 GPa |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient: | 6.1 × 10⁻⁶ °K⁻¹ |
| Thermal Conductivity: | 59 W/(m·K) |
| Melting Point: | 1210 °K |
| Available Diameters: | 3 to 400 mm |
| Hickness Range: | 1–50 mm |
| Surface Quality: | 60/40 |
| Flatness: | λ/2 |
| Parallelism: | <10 arcseconds |
Features
- Broad IR Transmission: Covers 1.8 µm to 23 µm; ideal for 8–14 µm thermal IR range
- High Refractive Index: ~4.0 index enables compact optical designs with wide aperture angles
- Low Optical Dispersion: Ensures minimal chromatic aberration across IR spectrum
- DLC Coating Option: Enhances durability, reduces reflection, and adds scratch resistance
- Custom Machining: Available in windows, spherical/aspherical lenses, and wafers
- High Surface Quality: Meets 40/20 to 60/40 scratch-dig specifications
- Thermal Sensitivity: Performance degrades above 100°C; use with caution in hot environments
Applications
- Thermal Imaging Systems: Optimal IR transmission in 8–14 µm for thermal cameras
- Night Vision Equipment: High-index material supports compact night vision optics
- Infrared Spectroscopy: Low dispersion ensures accuracy in spectral measurements
- Laser and Sensor Windows: Durable and protective IR-transparent optical windows
- Infrared Optics for Defense and Aerospace: Rugged and high-performance in harsh conditions
- Semiconductor Substrates: Thin wafers for electronic or fiber-optic doping use
For pricing, technical or any other questions please contact the supplier
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How to order?
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Ships from:
Belgium
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Sold by:
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On FindLight:
since 2020
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can order customized Germanium Optics as per your specific requirements.
Germanium Optics are widely used in defense, night vision, IR optics, industry, and optical devices.
Germanium Optics have good infrared properties, making them suitable for applications in defense, night vision, IR optics, industry, and optical devices.
Germanium Optics are custom-manufactured optical components made from germanium material.
You can find more information about Germanium Optics on our website and datasheet.