BaF2 (Barium fluoride) – BaF2 is insoluble in water and soluble in acids. It has a wider spectral range. It is a relatively hard material and sensitive to mechanical and thermal shock. CaF2 (Calcium fluoride) – CaF2 is insoluble in water and resists most acids and alkalis. It is soluble in ammonium salts. Due to its high mechanical strength, it is particularly useful for high-pressure applications. CsI (Caesium iodide) – CsI is soluble in water and alcohol and mildly toxic. It has a high resistance to shock. It is a soft, difficult to polish material. CCI is hygroscopic. KBr (Potassium bromide) – KBr is soluble in water and alcohol and slightly soluble in ether. It is fairly resistant to thermal and mechanical shock. KBr is hygroscopic. KCl (Potassium chloride) – KCl is less soluble than NaCl. It has an extended transmission range and lower reflection losses. KCl is hygroscopic. KRS-5 (Thallium bromoiodide) – KRS-5 is insoluble in acids, slightly soluble in water and soluble in bases. Because of its good transmission range, it is ideal for ATR applications. The soft material will deform easily. It is highly toxic and not hygroscopic. MgF2 (Magnesium fluoride) – MgF2 is almost insoluble in water. It is a hard material and is transparent from the VUV to the MIR spectral range. Not recommended for use at temperatures above 500 °C. NaCl (Sodium chloride) – NaCl is slightly soluble in alcohol and soluble in water and glycerine. It is faily resistant to mechanical and thermal shock. SiO2 (Fused Silica) – Infrared grade SiO2 is insoluble in water and slightly soluble in bases. Its transmission extends into the near-infrared region. ZnS (Zinc sulfide) – ZnS is insoluble in water, normal acids, and bases and reacts with strong oxidizing agents. It has good resistance to mechanical and thermal shock. ZnSe (Zinc selenide) – ZnSe is insoluble in water and slightly soluble in acids. It has a high resistance to chemical attacks. Organic solvents, dilute acids and bases have no effect on the material. It is ideal for ATR applications due to its low absorption in the infrared region. Please note, some of the above-mentioned materials are hygroscopic or sensitive to UV radiation. Appropriate storage conditions should therefore be strictly adhered to. |