In cooperation with new partners, KYBURZ SAPPHIRE has qualified new suppliers for UV-optimised sapphire. The results show that for applications in the deepest UV ranges the combination of pure raw material and perfect polish is crucial.
Every detail matters in high-precision measurement technology and optical analysis – especially for applications in the deepest UV ranges. Applications such as UV spectroscopy, lithography or high-energy UV laser require materials with the highest transmission at wavelengths between 200 and 280 nanometres.
In a cooperative project with new partners, KYBURZ SAPPHIRE investigated two new and different sapphire types in regards to their UV transmission. The results confirm that only the combination of controlled material quality and perfect processing deliver the desired optical result.
Comparative investigation brings clarity
Cylindrical sapphire blanks with a diameter of 29 mm were investigated. They were ground down to different thicknesses and then lapped and polished with the highest precision. This enabled the actual transmission of the material to be assessed independently of processing defects.
The analysis reveals significant differences:
- Typ S reaches around 77% transmission at 200 nm with a thickness of 2 mm – at 24 mm it still remains over 50%.
- Typ R maintains constant transmission even at greater thicknesses, but shows almost complete absorption in the 200 – 230 nm range.
The results show that deep UV transmission is strongly dependent on the purity of the raw material. Influencing factors such as trace elements (titanium, iron), growth atmosphere or crystal defects play a significant role – they lead to absorption bands and transmission losses.
Figure: Transmission vs. wavelengths for all sample thicknesses
KYBURZ ensures quality throughout the entire supply chain
To provide our customers in sensors, optics and analysis technology the greatest reliability, at KYBURZ SAPPHIRE we use stable supply chains with qualified partners. The advantage: continuous control from the raw material through to the finished sapphire component – for measurable performance and reproducible quality in critical applications.
Precision begins with the right material – and ends with the perfect finish.
Visit us at Laser Photonics in Munich
from 24 to 27 June 2025
Hall B1, Stand B1.353
