Barium fluoride (BaF₂) is a premier optical material widely used in the creation of BaF2 Windows and BaF2 components due to its broad UV-IR transparency and low absorption rates. This makes it an ideal choice for optical systems, including spectroscopic instruments and imaging technologies. With exceptional UV transmission capabilities, BaF₂ ensures precise light collection across a wide range of wavelengths, from ultraviolet (UV) to infrared (IR). Serving as a critical component in scientific and industrial applications, BaF2 Windows deliver unparalleled optical performance. However, when selecting materials for specific environments, users should take into account Barium fluoride's sensitivity to thermal and mechanical shocks, as well as its moderate water resistance. Discover the technical properties, applications, and benefits of Barium fluoride components to enhance your optical systems today
Barium Fluoride (BaF₂) is a highly valuable optical material, widely utilized in the production of BaF2 Windows and BaF2 components, due to its extensive applications in advanced optical systems and technologies. BaF₂ exhibits remarkable transmission capabilities, spanning wavelengths from 0.15 to 12 μm, and features a low refractive index of 1.45 at 5 μm. With a reflection loss of 6.5% at 5 μm across two surfaces and an absorption coefficient of 3.2 x 10⁻¹ at 6 μm, BaF2 Windows ensure optimal light transmission in scientific and industrial applications.
With a density of 4.89 g/cc and a melting point of 1386°C, BaF2 components provide stability in high-performance optical systems. Its thermal conductivity of 11.72 W m⁻¹ at 286 K and thermal expansion rate of 18.1 x 10⁻¹ at 273 K further enhance its functionality in precision optical engineering.
BaF₂ also boasts impressive mechanical and thermal properties, such as hardness (Knoop: 82 with 500g indenter), specific heat capacity (410 J Kg⁻¹), and a dielectric constant of 7.33 at 1 MHz. Robust mechanical attributes, including a Young’s modulus of 53.07 GPa, shear modulus of 25.4 GPa, and bulk modulus of 56.4 GPa, as well as its Poisson ratio of 0.343 and apparent elastic limit of 26.9 MPa, make BaF2 components mechanically compatible for diverse optical applications.
Although Barium Fluoride demonstrates moderate solubility at 0.17 g/100 g water at 23°C, its excellent performance makes it indispensable. With a molecular weight of 175.36 and a cubic fluorite structure (Fm3m #225), Barium Fluoride remains a cornerstone for UV-IR transparency and advanced optical systems.