Research Progress of Long-wavelength Infrared Optical Materials

Infrared optical material is a foundation for the application of infrared technologies. Long- wavelength infrared optical materials, which can be used suitably in the infrared region from 8µm to 12µm, have important application prospect. Several kinds of long-wave infrared optical materials currently available are introduced in this paper. The fabrication techniques and the research status of these materials are reviewed. The problems related to their fabrication and applications are also discussed. Finally, it is recommended that the progress trends in long-wavelength infrared optical materials will be focused on the design and preparation of composite infrared optical materials, the growth technology of large-size II-VI compounds single crystals, the technology of protecting films used for alkali halides compounds crystals and the development of new chalcogenide glass.