Product Description
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) AR-Coated IR Optical Window – Custom Shape, 2″ Width x 80mm Length x 5mm Thickness
This premium ZnSe optical window represents exceptional value in surplus IR optics, boasting a large surface area (approximately 2 inches / 50.8 mm wide by 80 mm long) and substantial 5 mm thickness for enhanced durability and thermal handling in high-power applications. Sourced from high-end surplus inventory, this used component features a unique rectangular design with one rounded end, optimizing it for seamless integration into specialized systems.
ZnSe’s inherent properties—broad IR transmission (0.6–21 µm), low absorption coefficient, and superior resistance to thermal shock—make this window a standout choice for professionals seeking reliable performance without the premium cost of new fabrication.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | High-purity Zinc Selenide (ZnSe), polycrystalline, CVD-grown |
| Width | 2 inches (50.8 mm) |
| Length | 80 mm |
| Thickness | 5 mm |
| Shape | Rectangular with one rounded end – custom design for easy mounting |
| Surface Area | >4,000 mm² |
| Coating | Advanced Anti-Reflective (AR) coating on one side |
| Coating Performance | <0.5% reflection per surface at 10.6 µm (typical for CO₂ lasers) |
| Coating Indicator | Surface pointer (edge bevel/mark) clearly indicates coated side |
| Transmission Range | 0.6 – 21 µm (ZnSe material) |
| Refractive Index | 2.4028 @ 10.6 µm |
| Absorption | Exceptionally low (<0.0005 cm⁻¹ at 10.6 µm) |
| Density | 5.27 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | Knoop 120 with 50g indenter – relatively soft; handle with care |
| Melting Point | 1525 °C |
| Condition | Gently used, excellent optical quality; some removable glue residue on edges from prior mounting |
Material & Coating Advantages
High-Purity Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) :
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Broadband IR Transmission: 0.6 µm to 21 µm, covering visible red through far-IR, including the critical 8-14 µm LWIR atmospheric window
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Low Absorption: Exceptionally low absorption at 10.6 µm (<0.0005 cm⁻¹) makes it ideal for high-power CO₂ laser systems, minimizing thermal lensing and power loss
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High Thermal Shock Resistance: ZnSe can withstand rapid temperature changes, making it suitable for demanding environments
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Non-Hygroscopic: Unlike some IR materials, ZnSe does not absorb moisture, ensuring long-term stability
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Visible Transmission: Partial transmission in the visible spectrum (appears yellow-orange) allows for easy alignment with visible lasers (e.g., HeNe at 633 nm)
Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating :
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Advanced dielectric AR coating on one side, engineered to minimize reflection losses
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Typically achieves <0.5% reflection per surface at 10.6 μm for CO₂ lasers, boosting transmission efficiency by up to 30% compared to uncoated alternatives
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A surface pointer (edge bevel/mark) clearly indicates the coated side, ensuring error-free installation and preserving coating integrity
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This specialized AR treatment alone adds significant value, as custom coatings can exceed $300 in manufacturing costs
Custom Shape & Design Advantages
The unique rectangular profile with a rounded end offers several practical benefits:
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Effortless Mounting: Designed for integration into slotted or enclosed setups without complex fixturing
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Reduced Edge Stress: Rounded profile minimizes stress concentration on this brittle material, reducing chipping risks during handling and mounting
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Large Surface Area: Over 4,000 mm² allows for broader beam paths or multi-use configurations, far exceeding standard small-diameter windows
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Substantial 5 mm Thickness: Provides enhanced mechanical strength and heat dissipation for high-power applications where thinner optics might fail
Applications
CO₂ Laser Systems (10.6 μm) :
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Robust output coupler, protective window, or beam delivery element in industrial cutters, engravers, and laser markers
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Ideal for upgrading high-power systems (e.g., K40 and similar machines) for improved efficiency and longevity
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The AR coating minimizes reflection losses, maximizing delivered power to the workpiece
Thermal Imaging and FLIR Devices:
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High-transmission window for infrared cameras operating in the 8–14 μm band
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Supports applications in surveillance, predictive maintenance, or medical diagnostics
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The 5 mm thickness ensures stability under varying temperatures and mechanical stress
Spectroscopy and Analytical Instruments:
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In FTIR or mid-IR sensors for precise chemical analysis, including gas detection (CO₂, CH₄)
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The AR coating reduces signal noise for cleaner data
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The large aperture improves light collection efficiency
Research and Prototyping:
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Perfect for labs, R&D, or custom builds in optics, photonics, or defense projects
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The combination of size, thickness, and coating justifies its premium positioning for demanding experimental setups
Condition
GENTLY USED – EXCELLENT OPTICAL QUALITY
OPTICAL SURFACES: Clean, no significant scratches or defects verified under angled light
COATING: Intact, uniform
EDGES: Some removable glue residue from prior mounting – does not affect optical performance
SURFACE POINTER: Clearly visible for coated side identification
READY FOR IMMEDIATE INTEGRATION
⚠ CRITICAL HANDLING NOTE: ZnSe is a relatively soft material (Knoop hardness 120) that scratches easily . Always wear gloves when handling . Handle only by edges. Never use tools or tweezers. Apply uniform pressure when mounting . Clean only with approved optical solvents and lint-free cloths if absolutely necessary. ZnSe is toxic – wash hands after handling and avoid inhalation of dust .



