Fused Silica Material Properties | |
Parameter | Characteristic |
Transparent Range | 180nm (deep UV) - 2.2µm (NIR) |
Refractive Index (@587nm) | ~1.458 |
Thermal Expansivity | 0.55 × 10⁻⁶ /K (near zero expansion) |
Heat Stability | Excellent (resistance to sudden changes in temperature) |
Laser Induced Damage Threshold | High (suitable for UV and high power lasers) |
Chemical Stability | Resistant to acids, alkalis and corrosion |
Radiation Resistance | Suitable for space and nuclear environments |
Comparison of Fused Silica & BK7 Right Angle Prisms | ||
Characteristic | Fused Silica Right Angle Prisms | BK7 Right Angle Prisms |
Transparent Range | 180nm – 2.2µm | 350nm – 2.0µm |
Ultraviolet Performance | Excellent (deep UV applicable) | Poor (<350 nm strong absorption) |
Heat Stability | Very low thermal expansion (0.55 x 10-⁶/K) | Higher thermal expansion (7.1 x 10-⁶/K) |
Laser Induced Damage Threshold | High (suitable for excimer laser and femtosecond laser) | Medium low (suitable for He-Ne and visible lasers) |
Cost | comparatively high | comparatively low |