SiLWIR™ Protective Windows
Designed for thermal imaging.
SiLWIR™ Silicon Protective Windows are an industry first, offering a cost-effective and readily available solution – compared to germanium – for Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) thermal imaging from 8-12µm. They feature a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating for durability and a BBAR Anti-Reflection (AR) coating to maximise transmission.
SiLWIR™ Protective Windows can withstand harsh environments and temperatures up to 200° C, are suitable for weight-sensitive applications, and adhere to MIL-F-48616 and MIL-C-48497C standards for severe abrasion resistance. With a Knoop Hardness of 1150, they’re low density, robust, lightweight and less prone to breakage.
Features & Benefits:
- Cost-effective and readily available, compared to germanium
- Specifically designed for thermal LWIR applications
- DLC and BBAR coating (8-12µm) | peak transmission >80%
- Safe in high-temperature applications ~200° C
- 1150 Knoop Hardness – strong and durable
- Meets MIL-F-48616 and MIL-C-48497C standards
- Available in sizes up to 6” in diameter
- Available with VHB adhesive
Applications:
- Thermography
- Military (DOD) applications
- Furnace inspection
- Night vision/Surveillance
- Mine detection
- Medical imaging
- Industrial process control
- Fire fighting
When high-purity silicon is paired with the right coatings, it delivers excellent LWIR transmission, durability, thermal conductivity and mechanical strength. MidOpt® SiLWIR™ is a great solution for safeguarding internal optics without compromising performance.
Germanium is typically the go-to material for LWIR (Long-Wave Infrared) optics because of its high refractive index and low dispersion, but its high cost and sourcing difficulties limit its use in cost-sensitive or large-scale applications. Chalcogenide glass offers an alternative lower cost solution for LWIR optics and is being increasingly used in the market. While silicon isn’t typically the first choice for certain optical elements, it excels as a protective window material in thermal systems
