Zinc Selenide (ZnSe) Optical Windows

Zinc Selenide windows are an excellent choice for a variety of IR applications including high power CO₂ laser systems. ZnSe offers low IR absorption and high resistance to thermal shock. However, windows must be handled with caution due to material's softness.

Ideal for high power CO₂ laser applications
Extremely low IR absorption
Highly resistant to thermal shock
3 to 12 µm broadband IR antireflection coating
Soft ZnSe material is not recommended for harsh environments
Low dispersion and low absorption coefficient

See All Features

Description	Compatibility	Price
10ZS20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 25.4 mm Diameter, 2 mm Thick	UNIVERSAL	$317
10ZS30 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 25.4 mm Diameter, 3 mm Thick	UNIVERSAL	$335
ZNW11AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 12.5 mm Diameter, 2.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$375
ZNW12AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 20.0 mm Diameter, 2.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$528
ZNW13AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 25.0 mm Diameter, 3.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$587
ZNW15AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 40.0 mm Diameter, 4.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$957
ZNW16AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 50.0 mm Diameter, 3.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$1,097
ZNW17AR.20 Zinc Selenide Optical WindowsOptical Window, Zinc Selenide, 75.0 mm Diameter, 6.0 mm Thick, 3-12 µm	UNIVERSAL	$2,746

Features

Ideal for Thermal Imaging

Zinc Selenide has low IR absorption, and is transparent across a very wide 0.6-16 µm spectral range. This is advantageous for thermal imaging, where temperatures of remote objects are ascertained via their blackbody radiation spectrum. Long wavelength transparency is crucial for imaging room temperature objects, which radiate at peak wavelength of approximately 10 µm with very low intensity.

3 to 12 µm Broadband Coating

ZnSe has a high index of refraction which requires an anti-reflection coating to achieve high transmission. Our broadband AR.20 coating is optimized for 3-12 µm and can withstand up to 100 kW/cm² for 10.6 µm CW laser beam with >113 µm spot diameter and <30 sec duration.

Withstands Thermally Demanding Environments

Zinc Selenide windows are ideally suited for thermally demanding environments. The windows are both low in absorption and high in thermal shock, making them usable even in high power CO₂ laser applications. These windows may also be used in applications such as IR imaging in scientific, military or search and rescue applications.

Handle With Caution

Zinc Selenide material is formed with extremely high purity by molecular beam epitaxy. It is a soft material, making it resilient and tolerant of thermal shock. It is also a toxic material. Great care must be taken in handling and cleaning the material. Wear gloves at all times to avoid risk of contamination. Hold only the edge to prevent scratches. Wash hands after use.

This is toxic by ingestion and inhalation of dust, with a cumulative effect. It also affects the nervous system. Particular care must be exercised when machining and creating dust or particles. Inhalation of dust may irritate the respiratory system. Acute selenium poisoning produces central nervous system effects, which include nervousness, convulsions and drowsiness. Other signs of intoxication can include skin eruptions, lassitude, gastrointestinal distress, teeth that are discolored or decayed, odorous ("garlic") breath. Chronic exposure by inhalation can produce symptoms that include pallor, coating of the tongue, anemia, irritation of the mucosa, lumbar pain, liver and spleen damage, as well as any of the other previously mentioned symptoms. Chronic contact with selenium compounds may cause garlic odor of breath and sweat, dermatitis, and moderate emotional instability.