Lanthanum Fluoride (LaF3) single crystal is valued in photonics for its deep-UV to mid-IR transparency, low phonon energy, and chemical stability. Its combination of optical clarity and moderate hardness makes it a reliable window, lens, and coating material for demanding optical systems.
Material Overview
LaF3 crystallizes in a hexagonal tysonite structure and exhibits high transmissivity from approximately 0.2 µm into the mid-infrared (~11 µm), with a refractive index near 1.5–1.6 in the visible and room-temperature thermal conductivity on the order of 5 W m−1 K−1. Beyond its optical behavior, LaF3 shows mobile F− vacancies that enable ionic conductivity at elevated temperatures—useful when electro-optic stack losses must be minimized and when thermal cycling is expected.
Applications and Advantages
As a low-absorption fluoride, LaF3 is widely used in multilayer UV coatings for lithography optics, VUV windows, and IR components that demand minimal scatter. High transmission and stable refractive index support precision metrology and laser delivery optics. Its fluoride-ion conductivity at high temperatures also underpins niche roles in ionic devices and sensors, while the material’s relatively low density helps control weight in compact opto-mechanical assemblies.
Goodfellow Availability
Goodfellow provides lanthanum fluoride and can support custom dimensions to fit optical benches and experimental setups. If you need tailored sizes or integration-ready components, our technical team can advise on tolerances and finishing to match your optical design.
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References
- Fielder, W. L. (1969). Electrical conductivity of lanthanum fluoride single crystals. NASA Technical Note. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/19690030671/downloads/19690030671.pdf
- Crystran Ltd. (n.d.). Lanthanum Fluoride (LaF3)—Optical material data. https://www.crystran.com/optical-materials/lanthanum-fluoride-laf3
- Rao, P., et al. (2015). A probe into compositional and structural dependence of LaF3 optics. Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research B. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168583X14008027