Magnesium Fluoride
- MgF2
Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) is a highly durable optical material valued for its excellent transmission from the deep ultraviolet through to the infrared, covering a broad spectral range of approximately 0.12 µm to 7.0 µm. This wideband transparency makes MgF₂ ideal for UV laser systems, excimer optics, VUV spectroscopy, vacuum-UV instrumentation, aerospace optics, thermal imaging, and a variety of broadband analytical systems requiring strong UV performance alongside IR compatibility.
MgF₂ provides a low refractive index (~1.38 at 1 µm) with very low birefringence when cut appropriately, enabling high optical clarity, good imaging performance, and efficient coupling into multiwavelength systems. As a non-hygroscopic and mechanically robust material, it offers far superior resistance to moisture, scratching, and chemical exposure compared with hygroscopic salts such as CaF₂ alternatives (NaCl, KBr). Its hardness and ruggedness make MgF₂ well-suited for field optics, high-power laser systems, and harsh-environment applications.
At Global Optics UK, we manufacture and supply precision MgF₂ windows, lenses, prisms, polarisation optics, and UV-grade components, available uncoated or with specialised VUV, UV, or IR anti-reflective coatings. Every optic is produced to strict dimensional tolerance and surface-quality specifications, ensuring consistent performance for UV laser delivery, VUV spectroscopy, aerospace imaging, thermal detection, and any optical platform requiring broadband transmission, mechanical durability, and long-term optical stability.
Explore Related Optical Materials:
Lithium Fluoride (LiF)
Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂)
Fused Silica (UV-grade)
FAQ
FAQ
Q: What is Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) used for?
A: Magnesium Fluoride is widely used in VUV/UV spectroscopy, excimer laser systems, aerospace and satellite optics, thermal imaging, and broadband UV–IR windows, prisms, and lenses thanks to its excellent 0.12–7.0 µm transmission.
Q: What makes MgF₂ different from other fluoride materials?
A: MgF₂ is extremely hard and durable, offers excellent UV and VUV transmission, has a low refractive index (~1.38), and is non-hygroscopic, making it more robust than salts such as NaCl and KBr. It also has very good radiation and environmental resistance.
Q: Is Magnesium Fluoride hygroscopic?
A: No. MgF₂ is fully non-hygroscopic, meaning it does not absorb moisture and remains stable even in humid or outdoor environments.
Q: Is MgF₂ suitable for high-power UV and excimer lasers?
A: Yes. MgF₂ is commonly used in F₂, ArF, KrF, and other excimer laser systems due to its high damage threshold and deep-UV transparency.
Q: What types of optical components can be made from MgF₂?
A: Common components include windows, lenses, prisms, wedges, polarisation optics, and broadband UV–IR elements. MgF₂ can also be birefringence-cut for polarising applications.
Q: How durable is Magnesium Fluoride?
A: MgF₂ is one of the hardest UV-transmitting optical materials, offering strong resistance to scratching, chemical exposure, and environmental wear, making it ideal for rugged field applications.
Q: Can MgF₂ optics be anti-reflection coated?
A: Yes. MgF₂ optics can be supplied uncoated or with UV/IR AR coatings, depending on the wavelength range and application requirements.
Q: Is MgF₂ safe to handle?
A: Yes. MgF₂ is chemically stable and non-toxic. Standard optical-handling precautions (gloves, lint-free wipes) are recommended to protect the surface.
Q: Where can I obtain technical data for MgF₂?
A: Full datasheets, technical specifications, and material graphs for Magnesium Fluoride are available here.