Thermal and optical properties of the Ga-Ge-Sb-Se glasses

A selected glass composition from the Ga-Ge-Sb-Se has been studied in detail for potential applications in the 8-12 mu m region. The Ga5Sb10Ge25Se60 glass has a high enough glass transition temperature (283 degrees C), a relatively high refractive index (2.63 at 10 mu m) and is very stable towards crystallization. An original purification method is developed to produce high purity glass with good transmission up to 15 mu m. This glass is very resistant in normal environmental conditions and even in hot water (60 degrees C) during 24 h. It may be a good candidate for producing infrared components operating in the mid and far infrared region. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.