Zinc Selenide rectangular window infrared optics

Product Description

Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) Rectangular Optical Window – 2.125″ x 7″ x 9mm Thick with Aluminum Mount

This precision Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) optical window is a versatile component for infrared (IR) optics, featuring a large rectangular aperture of approximately 2.125″ by 7″ and a substantial 9mm thickness. It’s securely housed in a black anodized aluminum mount for straightforward installation in lab, industrial, or research environments. Weighing in at around 1.5-2 lbs (including mount), this window’s heft reflects the dense, high-quality polycrystalline ZnSe material.

ZnSe is a material of choice for demanding IR applications due to its broad transmission range and low absorption coefficient. It is a soft, yellowish material often used in high-power CO₂ laser systems because of its high resistance to thermal shock . Its characteristic yellow-orange color comes from selective absorption of shorter visible wavelengths, making it an effective natural filter for blue/violet light while efficiently passing yellow-red and IR radiation.

---

Key Specifications

---

Material & Optical Properties

Zinc Selenide offers a unique combination of properties that make it ideal for high-power and broadband IR applications:

Spectral Performance :

• Broad Transmission: 0.6 – 21 µm, covering visible (red end), near-IR, MWIR, and LWIR bands

• Low Absorption: Extremely low absorption coefficient (0.0005 cm⁻¹ at 10.6 µm) minimizes signal loss in high-power systems

• Low Dispersion: Maintains signal fidelity across broad wavelength ranges

• Natural Tint: Yellow-orange appearance from selective absorption of shorter wavelengths

Physical Characteristics :

• Density: 5.27 g/cm³ – substantial heft indicates high-quality material

• Thermal Conductivity: 18 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹ – excellent for heat dissipation

• Thermal Expansion: 7.1 x 10⁻⁶ /°C – good thermal shock resistance

• Hardness: Knoop 120 – relatively soft; requires careful handling

Uncoated Advantage:
This window is uncoated, offering flexibility for the user to apply custom coatings optimized for specific wavelength bands (e.g., 3-5 µm, 8-12 µm, or broadband AR) . Uncoated ZnSe has a reflection loss of ~29% at 10.6 µm (two surfaces), which can be dramatically reduced with appropriate AR coatings .

---

Integrated Mount Advantage

The black anodized aluminum mount provides:

• Secure, repeatable positioning in optical setups

• Protection for the window edges during handling

• Easy integration into existing systems without custom fixturing

• Rigid support for the large aperture window

---

Applications

CO₂ Laser Systems (10.6 µm) :

• Protective windows for laser cutting, engraving, and medical systems

• Beam splitters and output couplers

• Its low absorption and high thermal shock resistance make it ideal for high-power CW and pulsed lasers

Thermal Imaging and FLIR :

• Windows for thermal cameras operating in the 8-14 µm LWIR band

• Protective covers for forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems in security, military, and industrial monitoring

Infrared Spectroscopy :

• Windows for gas analysis cells and sample chambers

• ATR (Attenuated Total Reflectance) prism applications

• FTIR spectroscopy accessories

Medical and Diagnostic Equipment :

• Non-contact thermometry and thermal imaging systems

• Laser medical devices operating at IR wavelengths

General IR Research :

• High-temperature process monitoring

• Remote sensing and astronomy

• Laser beam delivery and analysis

---

Material Notes & Handling Precautions

Important Safety Information:

• Soft Material: ZnSe is relatively soft (Knoop hardness 120) and scratches easily . Handle with extreme care.

• Toxicity: Zinc Selenide is a toxic material. Always wear rubber or plastic gloves when handling to avoid contamination and health risks . Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

• Cleaning: Use optical-grade materials and techniques only. Never apply pressure. Consult professional optics cleaning resources.

• Storage: Store in a clean, dry, protective case when not in use. Avoid stacking or contact with hard surfaces.

Safety Note: Due to its toxicity, proper disposal of ZnSe is required. Do not discard in regular waste.

---

Condition

EXCELLENT SURPLUS CONDITION
SURFACES: Clean, no visible scratches, chips, or defects
MOUNT: Black anodized aluminum, no damage, ready for use
OPTICAL INTEGRITY: Excellent – no degradation observed
READY FOR IMMEDIATE INTEGRATION

⚠ CRITICAL HANDLING NOTE: This is a soft, toxic material. Always wear gloves when handling. Never touch optical surfaces. Handle only by edges or mount.