Optical Material Selection by Wavelength

This chart is a quick substrate-selection guide showing which common optical materials provide good transmission at specific wavelengths from deep‑UV through the infrared. Each column represents a representative wavelength (e.g., 193 nm, 248 nm, 1060 nm, 10.6 µm), and the materials listed in that column are typical candidates for lenses, windows, and prisms used in that spectral region. Use it as a first-pass filter: start with your wavelength, shortlist the materials shown, then refine the choice by checking refractive index/dispersion, birefringence, thermal properties, laser damage threshold, and environmental durability for your operating conditions. Coatings, surface quality, and part thickness can significantly change real throughput, so confirm the detailed transmission curve and coating availability before finalizing. As a general rule of thumb reflected in the table, fused silica is widely used across UV–visible–NIR, while ZnSe/ZnS and Ge are common choices further into the mid‑IR.
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