Germanium windows

Germanium windows, Ge windows

 

Germanium windows are optical components made from germanium (Ge), a semiconductor material known for its excellent optical properties in the infrared (IR) spectral range.

YREMOptics can manufacture Germanium windows in various shapes and sizes, including flat, plano-convex, plano-concave, or cylindrical, depending on their intended use. Here is a standard examples of manufacturing in stock:

Germanium (Ge) windows
AR-Coated Versions Available
Available Diameter (mm) Thickness (mm)
12,7 3
25,4 5

Applications:

Germanium windows find applications in numerous fields, including:

  1. Infrared Imaging: Germanium windows are used in infrared imaging systems, thermal imaging cameras, and night vision devices. They allow infrared radiation to pass through while blocking visible light, enabling detection and imaging of objects based on their thermal signatures.
  2. Remote Sensing:  Used in remote sensing applications, such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, and surveillance. They enable the detection of infrared radiation emitted or reflected by objects on the Earth’s surface or atmosphere.
  3. Laser Systems:  Used as optical components in laser systems operating in the infrared region. They are employed as laser windows, beam splitters, or output couplers in laser cavities, providing optical access and transmission for infrared lasers.
  4. Spectroscopy:  In spectroscopic instruments and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometers Germanium windows are used for analyzing the chemical composition of materials based on their infrared absorption spectra.
  5. Space Exploration: Germanium windows are used in space exploration missions and satellites for infrared sensing and imaging applications. They provide optical windows for infrared instruments onboard spacecraft and satellites, allowing for remote sensing and scientific observations of celestial bodies and phenomena.
Size Tolerance +0.0 / – 0.2mm
Thickness Tolerance + / – 0.1mm
Wavelength Range (Uncoated) 2.0 – 16 μm
AR Coating Range 2.0 – 12.0 μm
Clear Aperture >85%
Parallelism <1 arc min
Surface Quality 40 – 20 scratch-dig

Advantages:

  1. Broad Infrared Transmission: Germanium windows offer high transmission in the infrared region, particularly in the MWIR and LWIR wavelengths, making them suitable for infrared sensing and imaging applications.
  2. Thermal Stability: Germanium has a high melting point and thermal conductivity, allowing germanium windows to withstand high temperatures and thermal fluctuations.
  3. Low Dispersion: Germanium exhibits low dispersion in the infrared region, enabling high-resolution imaging and spectroscopic measurements with minimal optical aberrations.
  4. Chemical Inertness: Germanium is chemically inert and resistant to most acids, bases, and corrosive chemicals, providing long-term durability in harsh environments.
  5. Mechanical Strength: Germanium windows are mechanically robust and can withstand mechanical stress and handling without fracturing or breaking easily.