As thermal imaging becomes increasingly important across industries like defense, industrial inspection, medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring, the demand for high-performance optical components in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) range (8-12µm) is growing rapidly. Traditionally, germanium has been the go-to material for LWIR optics, but its high cost and supply limitations present significant challenges – especially for large-scale and cost-sensitive applications.
MidOpt® is proud to introduce SiLWIR™: Silicon LWIR Protective Windows for thermal imaging, a rugged, economical alternative that delivers excellent performance in LWIR systems. While silicon has often been overlooked for infrared optics, it offers exceptional value when a pure-grade form is combined with proper coatings, including diamond-like carbon coating and double side anti-reflective (AR) coating.
Why Silicon for LWIR?
- High LWIR Transmission: Pure-grade silicon with DLC and double-side AR coatings provides outstanding LWIR light transmission, with only a 10% difference in spectral response compared to germanium.
- Cost-Effective: Silicon is abundant, affordable and benefits from decades of refined semiconductor manufacturing processes, making it ideal for high-volume production.
- Durable and Tough: With excellent mechanical strength and impact resistance, silicon performs reliably in harsh environments like military and aerospace applications.
- Efficient Thermal Management: Its superior thermal conductivity helps protect internal system components by efficiently dissipating heat.
- Readily Available: Mature supply chains and manufacturing capabilities ensure consistent quality, shorter lead times, and stable pricing.
Protective windows are essential to shield internal optical components while maintaining image clarity. With silicon’s unique combination of transparency, toughness and thermal stability, SiLWIR™ windows provide an optimal balance of performance, durability and cost.
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