Gallium Arsenide - GaAs
Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) is a high-performance semiconductor and infrared optical material widely used in advanced IR imaging, spectroscopy, and laser systems. It offers excellent broadband transmission from approximately 2 µm to 17 µm, covering both the mid-infrared (MWIR) and far-infrared (LWIR) spectral regions. With its high refractive index (~3.3 @ 10 µm), low dispersion, and superior thermal properties, Gallium Arsenide is ideal for designing compact, high-efficiency infrared optical systems.
Unlike hygroscopic IR materials such as ZnSe or CsI, Gallium Arsenide is non-hygroscopic, providing excellent stability in humid and outdoor environments. Its high thermal conductivity allows it to perform reliably under high-power laser conditions, while its mechanical robustness makes it suitable for demanding optical and industrial applications. GaAs is commonly used for infrared windows, lenses, beam splitters, and substrates in thermal imaging cameras, spectroscopy equipment, laser optics, and semiconductor devices.
At Global Optics UK, we supply precision-polished Gallium Arsenide windows, lenses, prisms, and custom optics, manufactured to exacting tolerances. Components are available in a range of sizes, coatings (including AR coatings for 3–5 µm and 8–12 µm bands), and surface qualities, making them suitable for defence, aerospace, metrology, and scientific research applications.
Explore Related Optical Materials:
Germanium (Ge)
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe)
Zinc Sulphide (ZnS)
FAQ
FAQ
Q: What is Gallium Arsenide used for?
A: Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) is widely used in infrared optical systems, laser technology, and semiconductor devices. It is ideal for infrared windows, lenses, prisms, and beamsplitters operating in the 2–17 µm range, as well as for optoelectronic components such as LEDs, laser diodes, and photodetectors. Its high refractive index and excellent thermal conductivity make it suitable for compact, high-performance IR optics and high-power laser systems.
Q: What is the transmission range of Gallium Arsenide?
A: Gallium Arsenide offers excellent transmission from approximately 2 µm to 17 µm, covering both the mid-wave (MWIR) and long-wave (LWIR) infrared regions. It is opaque in the visible range but highly efficient in infrared transmission, making it suitable for thermal imaging and CO₂ laser applications.
Q: Is Gallium Arsenide mechanically durable?
A: Yes — GaAs is a hard and stable crystalline material with a Knoop hardness of around 750 kg/mm². However, it is brittle and can be sensitive to mechanical stress, so it requires careful handling and mounting during fabrication and assembly.
Q: Is Gallium Arsenide hygroscopic?
A: No — Gallium Arsenide is non-hygroscopic and chemically stable. It is resistant to moisture and most environmental conditions, making it suitable for outdoor, aerospace, and industrial infrared systems.
Q: Where can I download the datasheet?
A: You can download the Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) technical datasheet from our website or request it directly from our team.