Magnesium Oxide – MgO

Optical magnesium oxide (MgO) is a high-purity form of MgO that is commonly used as a material for optical components. It is a white and crystalline substance that has a cubic crystal structure.

Optical MgO is highly transparent in the ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared (IR) regions, making it an ideal material for use in optical systems. It is also highly refractive, which makes it useful in the construction of lenses, prisms, and other optical components.

One of the unique properties of optical MgO is its ability to function as a high-temperature window material. It can withstand temperatures of up to 2000°C without significant degradation, which makes it highly valuable in high-temperature applications such as furnace windows and combustion chambers.

Optical MgO also has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, which makes it resistant to thermal shock and suitable for use in cryogenic applications. It is often used in the construction of cryogenic optical systems and detectors.

However, optical MgO is a brittle material that can be easily damaged under mechanical stress. It is also susceptible to chemical attack by strong acids and alkalis. Therefore, it is important to take proper precautions when handling and storing this material.

In summary, optical magnesium oxide (MgO) is a highly transparent and refractive material that is widely used in optics and photonics applications. Its ability to function as a high-temperature window material and its resistance to thermal shock make it highly valuable in harsh environmental conditions. However, its brittleness and susceptibility to chemical attack require careful handling and storage.