Infrared optical systems are designed to work in the infrared (IR) region of the spectrum, that is, wavelengths that are longer than visible light, typically ranging from around 700 nanometers to one millimeter.
Infrared (IR) optics are critical in industries such as defense, where they are used in thermal imaging systems to detect and track objects based on their heat signatures. In medical imaging, IR optics help create images based on the thermal radiation emitted by tissues in the human body.
Lattice Materials specializes in manufacturing infrared optical lenses, windows, and mirrors. We use high-purity, in-house custom-grown silicon and germanium to produce IR optics. Silicon is commonly used in the near-infrared (NIR) and mid-wave infrared range (MWIR), while germanium is used in both the mid-wave infrared range (MWIR) and long-wave infrared range (LWIR).
There are many technical challenges in manufacturing infrared optics, such as maintaining high optical quality over a wide range of temperatures, minimizing unwanted reflections, and reducing the absorption of infrared radiation.
At Lattice Materials, we build infrared optical components to customized specifications using carefully controlled manufacturing processes:
Building infrared optical components to spec requires the highest level of precision and expertise, as even minor variations in the manufacturing process can significantly impact the final product’s performance.
At Lattice Materials, we follow rigorous manufacturing processes to produce infrared optical components that consistently deliver high-quality optical performance.
At Lattice Materials, we manufacture IR materials for optical systems and devices such as:
Meeting such diverse and individual requirements of various applications requires custom design and made-to-order shaping of IR materials.
We use specialized equipment and advanced techniques to produce custom optics with different geometries, such as flats, rounds, and other shapes that cater to specific needs.
Custom shaping involves techniques such as precision grinding, polishing, diamond turning, or other advanced machining processes. We ensure the accuracy and quality of the final shape, meeting stringent tolerances and optical specifications.
Whether it’s optical design of thermal imaging systems, spectroscopy devices, or photonic solutions, our custom shaping capabilities enable better IR performance optimization.
Polished to optical specifications better than 20/10 scratch/dig, 1/10th wave flatness and down to 10 Å RMS
*All specifications are dependent on part geometry.
Do you have a custom requirement for silicon and germanium infrared optics? Send us your specifications, and our engineering and sales teams will connect with you to discuss your project details.
