ZnSe optical material reference for CO2 laser windows and infrared optical components

ZnSe (Standard)

ZnSe optical material for CO2 laser and infrared optics, with local refractive-index reference data for engineering and RFQ review.

Key Properties

Primary engineering references for material screening, packaging review, and RFQ preparation.

Transmission Range

0.5 - 20 um

Refractive Index

2.4028 at 10.6 um

Density

5.27 g/cm3

Knoop Hardness

105-120 kg/mm2

Young's Modulus

67.2 GPa

Thermal Expansion

7.1 x 10^-6 /K @273 K; 7.8 x 10^-6 /K @373 K

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About ZnSe (Standard)

Overview

ZnSe is one of the standard substrates reviewed for CO2 laser optics, infrared windows, and general IR optical assemblies. In practical engineering work, ZnSe is usually selected when the design needs a combination of broad infrared use, moderate mechanical robustness, and a refractive index higher than fluoride materials but lower than Germanium.

Key Material Reference

Parameter	Reference
Practical Transmission Guidance	0.5-20.0 µm
Local RII Dataset Range	0.54-18.2 µm
Reference Dataset	Connolly formula 1, ZnSe reference, 23 °C
Refractive Index	2.4028 at 10.6 µm
Density	5.27 g/cm3
Knoop Hardness	105-120 kg/mm2
Young's Modulus	67.2 GPa
Thermal Expansion	7.1 x 10^-6 /K @273 K; 7.8 x 10^-6 /K @373 K

Selected Refractive Index Reference

The points below are practical references from the local RII dataset. Final optical modeling should still use the confirmed part grade, coating condition, and released wavelength band.

Wavelength (µm)	Refractive Index
0.633	2.5910
1.064	2.4823
3.390	2.4356
5.000	2.4295
10.600	2.4028

Typical Applications

CO2 laser lenses and windows
Infrared lenses and beam-control optics
Thermal imaging windows and assemblies
IR spectroscopy components

Engineering Notes

ZnSe is often the balanced choice between lower-index fluoride substrates and higher-index Germanium. Engineers should confirm coating stack, geometry, edge strength, and the real operating band before release. Compare alternative substrates through the materials index and review build options under products if the RFQ may become a finished optic instead of a raw substrate.

Procurement Checklist

State whether the request is for a window, a powered optic, or a substrate blank.
Include wavelength band, dimensions, quantity, and coating target in the RFQ.
Call out any laser-use, thermal-environment, or cleaning requirement that affects coating and inspection.
Confirm whether the drawing is frozen or whether a manufacturability review is still needed.