Infrared optical materials exhibit different transmittance rates across various wavelengths. Common materials include silicon, germanium, zinc sulfide, zinc selenide, and chalcogenide glass. Bena Optics is capable of processing most infrared crystal materials, covering spherical, aspherical, and planar surfaces.
High Transmittance and Low Absorption: Materials like germanium (Ge), zinc sulfide (ZnS), and zinc selenide (ZnSe) offer high transmittance and low absorption, suitable for various infrared bands. For instance, Ge is ideal for mid-infrared, ZnS for mid and long-wave infrared, and ZnSe for high-power CO2 laser systems.
Good Mechanical Properties and Environmental Adaptability: These materials exhibit excellent mechanical properties and can operate stably over a wide temperature range. ZnS and ZnSe, in particular, are suitable for various optical systems due to their robustness and adaptability.
High Refractive Index and Low Density: Ge has a high refractive index (~4.0) for mid-infrared applications but is dense and costly. Silicon (Si), on the other hand, is cost-effective with good mechanical properties, suitable for mid-infrared.
Wide Application Range: Infrared optical lenses are widely used in infrared imaging systems, thermal cameras, infrared sensors, laser systems, and spectrometers, requiring excellent optical performance and stability.
Infrared Detectors and Thermal Imaging: Transmissive single-crystal silicon lenses effectively transmit infrared light with low absorption and high transmittance, providing high-quality data for image processing and analysis.
Infrared Laser Ranging, Illumination, and Surveillance: Reflective single-crystal silicon lenses reflect infrared light at specific angles, ideal for compact, high-efficiency applications in laser ranging, illumination, and surveillance.
Night Vision and Thermal Imaging: Infrared glasses enhance night visibility by detecting infrared radiation, generating images based on temperature differences, useful in search and rescue, military, and wildlife observation.
Search and Rescue:
Infrared glasses help locate missing persons at night or under debris and detect hotspots in forest fires, preventing further disaster spread.
Military and Law Enforcement:
Infrared glasses assist in night patrols, navigation, target identification, and covert operations, enhancing night-time capabilities for military and law enforcement.
Wildlife Observation:
Biologists and nature enthusiasts use infrared glasses to observe nocturnal animals without disturbing their natural behavior, crucial for ecological and behavioral studies.
Protective Function:
Infrared glasses protect eyes from harmful infrared and ultraviolet rays, dust, lasers, and fog, suitable for harsh environments.
Industrial Applications:
Widely used in handicrafts and welding, infrared glasses provide essential eye protection for industrial workers.