Borosilicate Glass - BK7: Properties, Uses, and Advantages

Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that contains boron trioxide as a major component, known for its high thermal resistance and low coefficient of thermal expansion. These properties make it ideal for optical applications that demand stability across a wide temperature range.

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Key Properties of Borosilicate Glass

• High Thermal Resistance
  Borosilicate glass can withstand high temperatures, maintaining stable performance without expanding or contracting significantly. This makes it suitable for applications that involve temperature fluctuations.

• High Transmittance in Visible and Near-Infrared Spectra
  Borosilicate glass is valued in optics due to its high transmittance in the visible and near-infrared spectra, making it a preferred choice for optical lenses and other transparent components.

• Chemical Resistance
  With strong resistance to chemical attack, borosilicate glass is well-suited for environments where it may encounter harsh chemicals. This feature makes it a reliable choice for optical systems exposed to various substances.

• Durability and Brand Recognition
  One of the most well-known brands of borosilicate glass is Pyrex (a registered trademark of Corning Incorporated). Pyrex is frequently used in lenses, mirrors, and other optical components due to its high quality and durability, especially in demanding settings.​

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Limitations of Borosilicate Glass

• Higher Manufacturing Complexity and Cost
  Compared to other types of glass like BK7, borosilicate glass is more challenging to manufacture, especially for large or complex optics. This can increase costs, making it more expensive for certain applications.

• Lower Refractive Index
  Borosilicate glass has a lower refractive index than other optical glasses, which may limit its effectiveness in applications where higher light-bending capability is needed.

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Applications of Borosilicate Glass in Optics

Despite its limitations, borosilicate glass is a versatile and reliable material for a range of optical applications, including:

• Optical Lenses and Mirrors
  With its thermal stability and high transmittance, borosilicate glass is ideal for optical lenses and mirrors that need to perform consistently under varying temperatures.

• Optical Components in Harsh Environments
  Due to its chemical resistance, borosilicate glass is suitable for optical systems that operate in environments exposed to corrosive or abrasive substances.

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Why Choose Borosilicate Glass?

Overall, borosilicate glass offers a unique combination of thermal stability, chemical resistance, and high optical transmittance, making it an excellent choice for various optical applications. Whether used in scientific instruments, industrial optics, or precision lenses, borosilicate glass provides durability and performance in demanding environments.

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Learn More About Borosilicate Glass for Optical Applications

Interested in how borosilicate glass or BK7 can enhance your optical systems? Contact us today to explore our range of high-quality optical materials and find the best solution for your application. Our team of experts is here to help you choose the right material to meet your specific needs.