Specialist IR Crystal — Toxic Handling Required
KRS-6 (Thallium Bromo Chloride)
Specialist IR crystal transmitting from visible wavelengths into the long-wave infrared
KRS-6 is a thallium bromo-chloride mixed crystal with broad infrared transmission. It is a niche material used mainly for specialist research where its spectral properties justify the handling constraints. KRS-6 is soft, water soluble and contains toxic thallium salts, so it requires stringent handling, fabrication and waste-control procedures.
Is this material right for your application?
Use When:
Broad IR transmission is required with improved durability over KRS-5
Spectroscopy systems operate in extended IR ranges
Mechanical handling requirements are slightly higher
Toxic materials can be safely managed
Environmental exposure is limited
Avoid When:
Toxic material handling is not permitted
Mechanical robustness comparable to oxide crystals is required
Cost-sensitive applications dominate
Consider Alternatives:
KRS-5 – broader IR transmission
ZnSe – non-toxic, more robust IR optics
ZnS – durable IR windows
Explore Related Optical Materials
KRS-5 (Thallium Bromo Iodide)
Zinc Selenide (ZnSe)
Germanium (Ge)
Material specifications and frequently asked questions
FAQ
Q1. What wavelength range does KRS-6 support?
KRS-6 has representative transmission from approximately 0.4 to 25 µm.
Q2. How does KRS-6 compare with KRS-5?
KRS-6 has a shorter infrared transmission range and remains a specialist material with significant handling constraints.
Q3. Is KRS-6 moisture-sensitive?
Yes. KRS-6 is water soluble and should be kept dry.
Q4. Is KRS-6 hazardous?
Yes. It contains toxic thallium salts and requires strict handling, fabrication and disposal controls.
Used in IR spectroscopy applications
Softer than oxide glasses
Contains thallium and requires careful handling