Nanograin Ceramic Optical Composite Window

Infrared (IR) window materials possessing both good optical and mechanical properties have been identified and developed for several decades. While their optical properties have been perfected to approaching the theoretical limits, higher mechanical strengths are still sought to meet the ever-demanding application needs. One route to improved mechanical and other properties will be through nanostructure engineering. It is possible to realize the next-generation IR window materials with properly designed nanostructural composite materials, in which two or more phases are combined at the nano scale to give enhanced properties not achievable with any of the single components. Boston Applied Technologies, in collaboration with University of Puerto Rico, proposes a novel chemical process to conveniently synthesize nanograin ceramic IR windows in production volume. The high purities of the starting materials will be maintained in the final products since the entire nanoparticle synthesis process will be eliminated. A recently developed combinatorial forming technique will be used to quickly and economically scan a few candidate systems. This unique approach will enable us to establish a vast materials database, from which the best composite formulation can be identified and further optimized. The availability of higher strength IR windows will certainly advance U.S. defense capabilities, and at the same time find many new applications in numerous commercial markets.