This high transmission AR coated sapphire optical window delivers the light efficiency that precision imaging and sensor systems demand. The 25.4mm window is fabricated from single crystal sapphire and polished on both sides to a 20-10 scratch-dig surface quality, then coated with a broadband anti-reflective layer that lifts transmission above 97 percent across the visible range and maintains strong performance into the UV and IR bands.
Sapphire was selected as the substrate because it combines the transmission performance of an optical window with the mechanical durability of a protective component. The high transmission sapphire window resists scratching, thermal shock, and chemical attack, which makes it suitable for applications where the window is exposed to cleaning, weather, or process environments.
Product Q&A
Q: How much does the AR coating improve transmission?
Uncoated sapphire reflects about 7 percent per surface, losing roughly 14 percent total. The broadband AR coating on this sapphire optical window reduces reflection to under 1.5 percent per surface, raising total transmission above 97 percent in the visible band and above 85 percent across the UV and IR ranges where sapphire naturally transmits.
Q: Can the coating be optimized for a specific wavelength?
Yes. The standard broadband AR design covers 400-700nm, but we regularly produce coatings centered on 1064nm for laser systems, 3-5um for MWIR cameras, and dual-band designs for fluorescence or multi-spectral instruments. Provide your operating wavelength and we will tune the coating stack.
Q: Why choose sapphire over fused silica or BK7 for a window?
Sapphire offers Mohs 9 hardness, roughly three times the mechanical strength of fused silica, and superior chemical resistance, while still transmitting from the UV through the mid-infrared. If your window must survive harsh environments and still deliver high transmission, sapphire is the balanced choice.
Q: What inspection data is included with the windows?
Each batch ships with surface quality inspection records, dimensional certificates, coating adhesion test results, and a measured spectral transmission curve. This documentation supports incoming inspection and medical or industrial quality programs.