Fused Silica - SiO2
Fused Silica (SiO₂) is an ultra-high-purity optical material renowned for its exceptional transmission from the deep ultraviolet (~180 nm) to the near-infrared (~2.5 µm). It exhibits very low absorption, negligible fluorescence, and an extremely high laser damage threshold, making it ideal for high-power laser systems, UV lithography, precision metrology, and spectroscopy.
With a low coefficient of thermal expansion and excellent homogeneity, fused silica offers outstanding thermal and environmental stability. Its moderate refractive index (~1.46 @ 1 µm) allows for efficient optical designs, often with reduced coating requirements.
At Global Optics UK, we supply precision-fabricated fused silica windows, lenses, prisms, and custom optics, tailored to your exact specifications for size, coating, and surface quality — ready for the most demanding optical and laser applications.
Explore Related Optical Materials:
Calcium Fluoride (CaF2)
Sapphire (Al203)
Borosilicate Glass (BK7)
FAQ
FAQ
Q: What is Fused Silica used for?
A: Fused Silica is widely used in ultraviolet, visible, and near-infrared optical systems. It is ideal for high-precision lenses, windows, prisms, laser optics, metrology, spectroscopy, and astronomy — especially where thermal stability and high laser damage resistance are required.
Q: What is the transmission range of Fused Silica?
A: Fused Silica offers excellent transmission from approximately 180 nm (UV) up to 2.5 µm (NIR), making it suitable for a broad range of optical, laser, and analytical applications.
Q: Is Fused Silica mechanically durable?
A: Yes — Fused Silica is hard (Knoop ~522), chemically stable, and resistant to scratching. However, like most glassy materials, it is brittle and should be handled carefully during fabrication and mounting.
Q: Is Fused Silica hygroscopic?
A: No — Fused Silica is non-hygroscopic and resistant to moisture and most chemicals, making it suitable for use in demanding environmental conditions.
Q: Where can I download the datasheet?
A: You can download the Fused Silica technical datasheet here, or request it directly from our team.