Introduction to Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) Windows
Zinc Sulfide Windows are advanced optical components used to transmit infrared light in applications such as thermal imaging, military optics, and gas detection. Made from high-purity chemical vapor deposition (CVD) Zinc Sulfide, these windows offer superior optical transmission in the 0.4 µm to 14 µm spectral range.
At Bote Optical Singapore, we specialize in producing custom ZnS windows for demanding applications. Our lenses and windows are fabricated to meet exacting tolerances, surface quality standards, and application-specific coating needs.
What Is Zinc Sulfide?
Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) is a chemical compound consisting of zinc and sulfur. It naturally occurs in a mineral form called Sphalerite, but for optical applications, it is produced synthetically using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) for optimal purity and performance.
🔬 Zinc Sulfide Structure:
- Crystal system: Cubic (Zincblende)
- Lattice structure: Face-centered cubic
- Chemical formula: ZnS
ZnS is brittle but hard, chemically stable, and optically transparent across a broad IR range, making it a top choice for rugged optical systems.
Zinc Sulfide Optical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Refractive Index @ 10.6 µm | ~2.2 |
| Transmission Range | 0.4 – 14 µm (Multispectral ZnS) |
| Density | 4.09 g/cm³ |
| Hardness (Knoop) | ~160 |
| Melting Point | ~1700°C |
| Thermal Expansion | ~6.5 × 10⁻⁶ /°C |
✅ Excellent performance in long-wave IR (8–12 µm) systems
✅ Suitable for both low and high-temperature environments
Types of Zinc Sulfide Windows We Offer
At Bote Optical, we offer both standard and custom ZnS infrared windows for various commercial and military-grade IR applications.
| Window Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Flat Circular Windows | Ideal for thermal imaging sensors and IR cameras |
| Rectangular Apertures | Custom designs for gas analysis or optical enclosures |
| Domed ZnS Windows | For aerodynamics and wide field-of-view IR systems |
| Multispectral ZnS (MS-ZnS) | Transparent in both visible and IR ranges; great for imaging and sensor fusion |
Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) Transmission Spectrum
ZnS provides high transmission in the 3–5 µm and 8–12 µm ranges, making it ideal for:
- Thermal infrared sensors
- FLIR systems
- CO₂ laser optics (10.6 µm)
- Gas detection spectrometers
To reduce surface reflection, anti-reflective (AR) coatings are often applied on one or both sides of the window, customized for specific wavelength bands.
Zinc Sulfide Refractive Index
ZnS has a high refractive index of approximately 2.2 at 10.6 µm, which supports excellent focusing power in infrared optics. This makes ZnS suitable for beam shaping, focusing lenses, and protective windows in high-precision IR systems.
What Is Zinc Sulfide Used For?
Zinc Sulfide is extensively used in:
- Thermal imaging optics
- CO₂ laser windows and optics
- Night vision equipment
- Multispectral imaging
- Military targeting systems
- Environmental monitoring instruments
ZnS windows are particularly valued for their mechanical strength, infrared transparency, and resistance to harsh environments.
Zinc Sulfide Price and Availability
The price of ZnS windows varies based on:
- Size and shape
- Quantity
- Coating requirements (AR, DLC, etc.)
- Tolerance and surface quality specs
At Bote Optical, we offer competitive pricing for both prototype quantities and bulk OEM orders. Contact us directly for a quote tailored to your project needs.
Zinc Sulfide Powder – Where to Buy?
Although this page focuses on optical-grade windows, ZnS is also available in powder form for industrial and academic research purposes. If you’re looking for ZnS powder for coating or synthesis, we recommend sourcing it from chemical suppliers or requesting a custom solution through our material partners.
Why Choose Bote Optical for ZnS Windows?
- ✅ Custom manufacturing in Singapore and China
- ✅ Fast prototyping for IR systems
- ✅ Advanced coatings for 3–5 µm and 8–12 µm bands
- ✅ ISO-compliant production & inspection
- ✅ Global shipping & export support
We support industries ranging from defense to semiconductors with reliable ZnS window solutions.
- Inspection Equipment List and Metrology of Bote Optics
- Introduction of BOTE Key Equipment
- Catalog of Precision Optics
- Catalog of Imaging Optics
- ISO9001-2015 Certified
FAQs
Q1: Can Zinc Sulfide Windows be used with lasers?
A: Yes, especially for CO₂ lasers operating at 10.6 µm. ZnS windows offer high transmission and thermal resistance.
Q2: What’s the difference between ZnS and ZnSe windows?
A: ZnS is more durable and better for rugged environments, while ZnSe provides higher transmission in the visible range.
Q3: Are ZnS windows available with coatings?
A: Yes, Bote Optical offers AR coatings for IR ranges (3–5 µm or 8–12 µm) and protective DLC coatings.
Q4: Do you provide small quantities for research?
A: Absolutely. We support custom orders from a single piece to large-scale production runs.
Recommended Images and Visuals
- Transmission spectrum chart of ZnS
- ZnS window product photos (flat & domed)
- Comparison infographic: ZnS vs ZnSe
- Infrared camera with ZnS protective window
(Note: I can generate high-quality visual assets on request.)
Contact Us for Zinc Sulfide Window Solutions
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.bote.com.sg
📍 Based in Singapore | Serving global clients
Ready to upgrade your IR system with high-performance Zinc Sulfide Windows? Contact our technical team today to discuss your design needs and get a fast quote.