Precision Silicon Optics: The Power of Silicon FZ and CZ

Silicon is a cornerstone of optics and photonics, cherished for its unique optical properties and remarkable adaptability.

One of its standout features is its transparency to infrared light, particularly in the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum, spanning from approximately 1.2 to over 8 microns. This quality renders it invaluable for applications that require the transmission of infrared radiation.

With a relatively high index of refraction, typically around 3.4 in the infrared range, silicon serves as an excellent material for crafting optical components like lenses, prisms, and windows. 

Silicon optics find diverse applications across fields such as spectroscopy, thermal imaging, and infrared sensing. Silicon lenses and windows, known for their exceptional infrared transmission capabilities, are widely utilized in infrared cameras and imaging systems. Additionally, silicon wafers play a crucial role in integrated photonic circuits for data transmission and processing in telecommunications and optical computing. We can supply both Silicon FZ and Silicon CZ optical grade silicon. 

Silicon optics (Si), including Silicon FZ (Float Zone) and Silicon CZ (Czochralski), is a high-index material renowned for its exceptional properties, making it indispensable in infrared (IR) optics and photonics applications. This advanced material features a broad transmission range, covering 0.12–15 μm and extending to over 100 μm. With a refractive index of 3.4223 at 5 μm and a reflection loss of 46.2% at 5 μm (two surfaces), it delivers unparalleled performance in IR lenses, windows, and prisms.

Silicon's absorption coefficient of 0.01 cm⁻¹ at 3 μm and its high thermal conductivity of 163 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ at 273 K make it ideal for demanding optical systems. Its durability is further supported by a melting point of 1420°C, a hardness (Knoop) of 1150, and thermal expansion of 2.6 × 10⁻⁶/°C at 20°C. These attributes establish silicon as the material of choice for spectroscopy, thermal imaging, and infrared sensing applications.

Key mechanical and structural properties include a density of 2.33 g/cc, specific heat capacity of 703 J·Kg⁻¹·K⁻¹, Young’s modulus of 131 GPa, and a cubic diamond structure (Fd3m). The dielectric constant (13 at 10 GHz) and elastic coefficients (C₁₁=167, C₁₂=65, C₄₄=80) of Silicon FZ and Silicon CZ further illustrate its versatility.

Optical Grade Silicon, whether produced via the FZ or CZ method, delivers consistent performance and stands resilient under extreme conditions, ensuring its critical role in advancing optical technologies, telecommunications, and integrated photonics.