Large-size oxyfluoride glasses used for vis-IR-transmitting windows

Windows for infrared sensors on missiles, aircraft and high energy laser systems must be of excellent spectral properties, high optical quality, large and durable enough to protect delicate sensors from harsh operating conditions. This paper describes work being done for IR window applications on heavy metal oxyfluoride (HMOF) glasses, which provide a combination of infrared transparency, strength, hardness, and environmental stability in a largely-sized formable material, and represents potential candidate materials for infrared windows.