Product Overview
The silicon carbide (SiC) prism is a high-performance optical
component made from advanced SiC ceramic material. It combines
excellent mechanical strength with superior infrared transmission
properties. Compared with traditional optical materials such as
fused silica, germanium, or zinc selenide, SiC not only performs
well in the mid-to-far infrared range but also provides
lightweight, high stiffness, and outstanding environmental
adaptability.
This product is widely used in aerospace, infrared imaging,
precision measurement, and military applications.
Key Features
Optimized lightweight structure design: Employs topology and honeycomb structures to reduce weight
effectively.
Ultra-lightweight: Much lighter than conventional optical materials, ideal for
weight-sensitive applications.
High stiffness: Maintains excellent resistance to deformation even with
lightweight design.
Low thermal expansion: Ensures optical stability under rapid or extreme temperature
changes.
Excellent wear resistance: With hardness close to diamond, resistant to scratches and
abrasion.
High-precision optical finishing: Flatness and parallelism up to 1 μm.
Performance Advantages
High hardness and modulus: Elastic modulus up to 420–450 GPa, maintaining dimensional stability under extreme conditions.
Low coefficient of thermal expansion: Minimizes stress and deformation caused by temperature
variations.
Corrosion and thermal shock resistance: Excellent resistance to acids and alkalis, stable performance
under both high and low temperatures, ensuring long service life.
High density: Bulk density up to 3.14 g/cm³; no pores remain after precision machining, guaranteeing stable
optical and mechanical performance.
Applications
Infrared optical systems: Mid- and far-infrared imaging, thermal imaging detectors,
infrared targeting and surveillance devices.
Laser and optoelectronic systems: High-power laser windows, beam-splitting components.
Aerospace: Satellite optical payloads, space telescopes, and airborne
sensors.
Defense & security: Infrared guidance systems, night vision, and security monitoring.
Precision metrology: Interferometry, optical testing, and other high-precision
flatness applications.
FAQ
Q1: Is SiC transparent in the visible spectrum?
A1: No. Silicon carbide is opaque in the visible range but has
excellent transmission in the mid- and far-infrared regions (e.g.,
3–5 μm, 8–12 μm).
Q2: How does SiC compare with germanium or ZnSe for infrared
optics?
A2: SiC is lighter, harder, and more durable than germanium or
ZnSe, making it more suitable for harsh environments, though its
transmission window differs.
Q3: Can SiC optics withstand high-power laser applications?
A3: Yes. Thanks to its high thermal conductivity, low expansion,
and strong mechanical stability, SiC is ideal for high-power and
high-energy laser systems.
Q4: What is the typical flatness and parallelism achievable?
A4: After precision polishing, flatness and parallelism can reach ≤ 1 μm, meeting demanding optical system requirements.
