Silicon photonics (SiPh) is a material that can be used to create photonic integrated circuits. Silicon is frequently the material of choice for devices operating in the middle infrared (MIR) region, from 3 to 5 m. However, the material can be employed across a much wider range of wavelengths, from 1.2m to 7m or even higher, with typical applications including NIR imaging and IR spectroscopy.
Silicon's low density (2.329 g/cm3) makes it appropriate for situations where weight is a factor. Silicon Optical Components have a Knoop hardness of 1150, making them tougher and less brittle than other materials.
Silicon optical lenses are suited for monochromatic light collimation and focusing applications. These lenses come in a variety of diameters and focal lengths to suit a wide range of applications.
Silicon windows are optical components that let light pass through without diffraction or scattering. These windows are constructed with accuracy and cause very little wavelength distortion. For many applications, they are a cost-effective option.
When the semiconductor qualities of silicon are desired, silicon windows are frequently used. Its resistivity ranges from 5 to 40 ohms. Silicon is tougher and less brittle than germanium, and it remains a semiconductor at higher temperatures. Its density is about half that of zinc selenide and germanium.
It is suitable for a range of mid-wave IR (MWIR) applications because of its optical properties, and its value is enhanced even more by its environmental durability, light weight, thermal stability, and natural abundance.
Silicon optical filters are used to transmit or block a certain range of infrared wavelengths in IR applications such as FTIR spectroscopy. The low density of silicon makes it ideal for use in weight-sensitive applications. Silicon windows are used in many different applications, including amplifier slabs, discs, and rods, debris shields, laser fusion optics, reference surfaces, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).
There is a huge variety of silicon optical components available on the market, including optical lenses, optical filters, or windows. Silicon lenses are available in a range of sizes or focal lengths for a wide variety of application needs. Most optics manufacturers provide custom silicon windows made and delivered untreated or with an anti-reflective coating. DLC/AR coatings are also available in a variety of colours.
Custom Silicone Windows are also available in many shapes and sizes, such as round or square, quadrate, triangular, or other polygonal shapes. Customers can easily order from prototype to production in grades ranging from commercial to laser quality. Apart from that, you can also order other optical components such as sapphire pistons, calcium fluoride windows, optical lenses, prisms, mirrors, filters and more.
