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High Performance Calcium Fluoride

Updated: 2026-09-19

Overview

High Performance Calcium Fluoride (CaF₂) is a specialized optical material prized for its exceptional transparency in ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) wavelengths. Unlike standard fluorite, it undergoes rigorous purification and crystal growth processes to minimize impurities and defects. This grade is engineered for precision optics, offering superior light transmission from 0.13 μm (VUV) to 10 μm (IR). Its cubic crystal structure ensures isotropic properties, making it ideal for lenses, windows, and laser components in demanding environments.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The material exhibits a Mohs hardness of 4, making it softer than glass but easier to polish to optical flatness. Its thermal expansion coefficient (18.9×10⁻⁶/°C) and thermal conductivity (9.7 W/m·K) allow stable performance under thermal stress. Chemically inert to most solvents, CaF₂ is susceptible to etching by strong acids and ammonium salts. Its low refractive index (1.43 at 587 nm) reduces reflection losses, while a high laser damage threshold (10 J/cm² at 1064 nm) suits high-power applications.

Main Applications

In lithography, CaF₂ components are critical for 193nm ArF excimer lasers used in semiconductor fabrication. Its UV transparency enables high-resolution patterning for chips below 10nm nodes. Other uses include FTIR spectrometer windows, missile guidance system optics, and telescope lenses. Emerging applications cover quantum computing (as a substrate for qubits) and EUV photolithography masks.

Safety and Storage

While non-toxic, CaF₂ powder requires dust control to prevent inhalation. Processed optics should be handled with lint-free gloves to avoid surface contamination. Store in nitrogen-purged containers for long-term stability. Desiccants are recommended to prevent hydrolysis, which can form surface hydroxides degrading optical performance. Cleaning requires alcohol or acetone—avoid acid-based solutions.

B2B Procurement Guide

Key specifications include: 1) Purity (99.99% for deep UV), 2) Birefringence (<5 nm/cm), 3) Surface roughness (<5 Å RMS for laser optics). Request certificates for trace metal content (Fe, Cu <1 ppm). Lead times for custom crystals range 8-12 weeks. Bulk orders (100+ kg) may qualify for 15-20% discounts. For prototyping, consider off-the-shelf plano-convex lenses or polished windows from specialized optics suppliers.

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