Current status of sapphire for optics

Frederick Schmid; Chandra P. Khattak; Maynard B. Smith; D. Mark Felt

doi:10.1117/12.279817

28 July 1997 Current status of sapphire for optics

Frederick Schmid, Chandra P. Khattak, Maynard B. Smith, D. Mark Felt

Proceedings Volume 10289, Advanced Materials for Optics and Precision Structures: A Critical Review; 102890A (1997) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.279817
Event: Optical Science, Engineering and Instrumentation '97, 1997, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Sapphire has been used for many optical applications. However, smaller sizes have been used, even though the Heat Exchanger Method (HEM) has produced 20 cm diameter crystals. New generation systems require outstanding optical properties, high strength, and abrasion and thermal shock resistance. Therefore, the choice is limited to sapphire. Crystals up to 34 cm diameter, 65 kg have been grown by HEM, and it is planned to scale up the size to 50 cm diameter. In addition to larger size, the optical quality has been improved to cover the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) and the near infrared wavelengths. Fabrication technology was advanced to fabricate larger size, higher precision optics cost effectively. Improved transmitted wavefronts and higher quality surfaces have been produced to address current applications.

Citation Download Citation

Frederick Schmid, Chandra P. Khattak, Maynard B. Smith, and D. Mark Felt "Current status of sapphire for optics", Proc. SPIE 10289, Advanced Materials for Optics and Precision Structures: A Critical Review, 102890A (28 July 1997); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.279817

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available