Investigation of As₄₀Se₆₀chalcogenide glass in precision glass molding for high-volume thermal imaging lenses

Abstract

The growing demand for thermal imaging sensors and cameras has focused attention on the need for larger volumes of lower cost optics in this infrared region. A major component of the cost of thermal imaging lenses is the germanium content. As 40 Se 60 was developed as a moldable, germanium-free chalcogenide glass that can serve as a low cost alternative to germanium and other infrared materials. This material also has promising characteristics for improved optical performance, especially with regard to reduced thermal sensitivity. As 40 Se 60 has found acceptance as a material to be diamond turned or polished, but it is only now emerging as a legitimate candidate for precision glass molding. This paper will review chalcogenide molding and characterize As 40 Se 60 for widespread use in highvolume thermal imaging optics. The relative advantages and disadvantages of As 40 Se 60 as compared to other chalcogenide glasses will also be discussed.

Deformation Analysis of the Glass Preform in the Progress of Precision Glass Molding for Fabricating Chalcogenide Glass Diffractive Optics with the Finite Element Method

“…The viscoelastic parameters of glass D-ZK3L at 550 • C, which can be a molding temperature, were used for the finite element simulations. The viscoelastic properties of glass D-ZK3L, other thermal properties of glass IRG206, and mechanical properties of the mold were listed in Table 4 [28][29][30]. The diagram of the established finite element model with boundary conditions is shown in Figure 6.…”

Pulsed DC sputter deposited hydrogenated carbon: an alternative durable infrared optical thin film material

“…The degree of control that is offered supports specialized applications and unique solutions, such as gas detection and thermal imaging [4,5]. The pulsed DC sputtering method is preferable over traditional Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition (PECVD) methods, as PECVD methods having limited throughput and require high temperature deposition inhibiting the use for high throughput applications [6] and the use of temperature sensitive substrates [7]. Moreover, pulsed DC sputter deposited hydrogenated carbon exhibits thermal stability in high temperature harsh environments where alternative materials may degrade with respect to optical properties.…”

High Refractive Index GRIN Lens for IR Optics

“…Chalcogenide glass is a good candidate for thermal imaging [ 17 ] and infrared optical lenses. Chalcogenide glasses have great potential for fabricating GRIN lenses by the glass accumulation thermal diffusion method due to their wide infrared transmission range (2–18 μm) and good thermal stability.…”