Both are excellent optical materials. But they are designed for different challenges.
Choose fused silica when you need:
• Excellent optical performance
• Low thermal expansion
• Good UV transmission
• A cost-effective optical solution
Choose sapphire when the window must do more than transmit light:
• Resist scratches and abrasion — Mohs 9 hardness
• Withstand high mechanical loads
• Survive high temperatures
• Resist harsh chemicals and environments
• Deliver long-term durability
That's why sapphire is widely used in flame detectors, industrial sensors, subsea imaging, medical devices, and harsh-environment optical systems.
The key question isn't “Which material is better?”
It's “What does your application require?”
Working on a demanding optical application? Send us your drawing or specifications — we'll help you find the right solution.
