Gallium Arsenide (GaAs)
Direct bandgap semiconductor with strong IR transmission
Infrared Semiconductor
Gallium Arsenide is a compound semiconductor with strong infrared transmission and excellent electronic properties. In optics, it is used for specialised IR windows, laser components, and sensing applications. GaAs is selected where both optical and electronic performance are required in a single material system.
Is this material right for your application?
Use When:
Avoid When:
Consider Alternatives:
Infrared transmission is required alongside electronic functionality
Semiconductor-based optical systems are used
Laser or sensing applications benefit from compound semiconductors
IR optics are integrated with electronic devices
Specialised optical-electronic performance is required
Cost-sensitive optical systems are being designed
Mechanical durability is a priority
Simple optical-only performance is sufficient (overkill)
ZnSe – simpler optical-only IR applications
Germanium (Ge) – LWIR optics without semiconductor properties
Silicon (Si) – NIR optics with lower cost
Key Properties
Optical
Infrared transmission capability
High refractive index
Mechanical
Moderate mechanical strength
Environmental
Suitable for integrated optical-electronic systems
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Frequently asked questions about Barium Fluoride specifications and use-cases
FAQ
Q1. What wavelength range is GaAs used for?
GaAs is used in the mid-infrared, typically ~2–14 µm.
Q2. Is GaAs suitable for infrared optics?
Yes. It is used for IR windows and lenses.
Q3. Is GaAs mechanically durable?
Moderate. It is brittle and requires careful handling.
Q4. What are alternatives to GaAs?
Germanium and ZnSe.
Opaque in the visible spectrum
High refractive index
Used in IR detectors and emitters