Calcite (CaCO3)
Strongly birefringent crystal with high optical anisotropy
Birefringent Crystal
Calcite is a strongly birefringent optical crystal widely used in polarisation optics. Its high birefringence allows it to separate ordinary and extraordinary rays efficiently, making it ideal for polarizers, beam splitters, and interferometric components. Calcite is best suited to precision optical instruments rather than harsh environments due to its mechanical sensitivity.
Is this material right for your application?
Use When:
Avoid When:
Consider Alternatives:
Strong birefringence is required
Polarisation control or beam separation is needed
Polarizers, beam splitters, or interferometric components are used
Optical anisotropy is a design requirement
Precision polarisation optics are the focus
Mechanical robustness is required
Components are exposed to vibration or shock
High thermal stability is critical
Non-polarised optics are sufficient (overkill use case)
Quartz (Crystalline SiO₂) – better mechanical stability with birefringence
Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) – UV applications without strong birefringence
Polarising films – lower-cost polarisation solutions where crystal optics are unnecessary
Key Properties
Optical
Extremely high birefringence
Strong optical anisotropy
Mechanical
Mechanically sensitive
Easily cleaved
Thermal / Environmental
Limited thermal stability
Best suited to precision instruments
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Frequently asked questions about Barium Fluoride specifications and use-cases
FAQ
Q1. What is Calcite mainly used for in optics?
Calcite is primarily used for polarization optics due to its strong birefringence.
Q2. What wavelength range does Calcite support?
Calcite transmits from the UV through the visible and into the near-IR.
Q3. Is Calcite mechanically robust?
No. Calcite is soft and cleaves easily, requiring careful handling.
Q4. What are alternatives to Calcite?
Quartz and Magnesium Fluoride (MgF₂) for polarization applications.
Calcite is commonly used in Glan-type polarizers.
Highly sensitive to mechanical shock.
Not suitable for high-power laser systems.