| How do I choose the material for an retroreflector? |
| Demand |
Recommended material |
| Visible light, low cost, general environment |
BK7 |
| UV/IR, high power laser |
Fused Silica |
| Space, nuclear environment, extreme temperatures |
Fused Silica |
| High precision interferometry |
Fused Silica (low thermal expansion) |
| Traffic reflective, general target |
BK7 |
What are the applications of BK7 retroreflectors?
Visible laser ranging (industrial laser rangefinders).
Optics lab instruction (low cost, easy access).
General laser interferometry (Michelson interferometer).
Robot navigation (AGV) (indoor environments).
| Comparison of the environmental suitability of BK7 Glass Retroreflectors and Fused Silica Retroreflectors |
| Application Environment |
BK7 Glass Retroreflectors |
Fused Silica Retroreflectors |
| High/Low Temperature |
Higher thermal expansion may affect accuracy |
Excellent thermal stability for extreme temperatures |
| Space/Vacuum |
May deteriorate due to radiation or temperature changes |
Radiation resistant, low outgassing, suitable for satellites, deep space exploration |
| High Humidity/Corrosion |
General corrosion resistance |
Resistant to acid, alkali and salt spray, suitable for marine or chemical environments |
| Vibration/Shock |
Higher mechanical strength, but not as good as fused silica |
Better shock resistance |
