ABSTRACT
This chapter provides optical, thermophysical, and mechanical data for a variety of optical materials. These generic data may be used as design guides, but it is essential to obtain precise data from the manufacturer of the specific material of interest for reliable information. Germanium (Ge) is used in the 2- to 12-µm spectral region. Ge is nonhygroscopic, has good thermal conductivity, and excellent hardness and strength. Ge is a popular choice as a substrate for a variety of filters as well as for monolithic optical elements. Gallium arsenide is a relatively strong and hard optical material. Gallium arsenide (GaAs) is a relatively strong and hard optical material. GaAs optics are limited by crystal growth technology to dimensions in the 5- to 7-cm range. The material is nonhygroscopic and relatively stable against various solvents other than strong acids. There are literally hundreds of glass compositions available from the various optical glass suppliers.
