How do you store (safe-keep) beam-splitters?

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SUMMARY

To safely store cube beam splitters, it is essential to avoid materials that can leave residues or cause damage. Recommended storage methods include using unlubricated condoms or dipping the beam splitter in liquid latex, both of which provide a clean, residue-free barrier. Additionally, wrapping the splitter in lint-free lens cloths and placing it inside a solid non-ferrous box with foam lining offers extra protection against dust and physical damage. Avoid polyethylene materials, as they can exude oils harmful to optics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of optical components and their sensitivity to contaminants
  • Familiarity with safe handling and storage practices for delicate equipment
  • Knowledge of materials such as polyethylene and their effects on optics
  • Experience with cleaning and maintaining optical devices
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and applications of liquid latex for optical storage
  • Learn about the best practices for cleaning and maintaining optical components
  • Investigate non-ferrous materials suitable for protective storage boxes
  • Explore the use of lint-free materials in optical equipment care
USEFUL FOR

Optical engineers, laboratory technicians, and anyone involved in the handling and storage of sensitive optical components, particularly cube beam splitters.

Callaghan
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someone purchased cube beam splitter years ago, it was wrapped around in tracing paper, really delicately.

I un-wrapped it , and used it for my experiment.

Now, my experiment is done, and I don't know how to store it safely.

If I leave it on the shelf carelessly, the beamsplitter will get dusty, and I don't want to do this.
Cleaning the optics is really sensitive.

How do you store or safe keep cube beam splitters? without getting dust and no worries about falling and breaking? (size: 1 inch X 1 inch X 1 inch)
 
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Shrink wrap?
 
wrapping vinyls... I tried that before, but those wraps left really dirty (not dust) stain on the glass surface of the cube beam splitter...

not a good idea...
 
Actually, I didn't mean vinyl. I was referring to the type used for storing food or laminating documents. Both, as far as I know, are polyethylene-based rather than polyvinyl.
As far as that goes, maybe you could just use an unlubricated condom and tie a knot in it.
Another thing that might work, which the previous sentence brought to mind, is that you could just dip it into liquid latex (available from hobby shops for modelling or even fabric stores in the guise of "Speed Sew"). It will peel off cleanly with no residue when you want to open it.
 
yes, that was what I meant. the type used for storing food. that left stain on the surface.

dipping into the liquid...

Are there any other candidate?

latex,
Isopropyl alcohol (stored in laboratory)
Acetone (stored in laboratory)

probably not acetone...
 
Oh...
I'll go think on it some more...
By the bye, I edited my last post with additions which might have been after the part that you responded to. Probably still inapplicable, but what the hey...
 
polyethylene exudes oils its not good for optics. get a couple photographers lint free lens cloths and wrap them inside and store inside a solid non ferrous box.(want extra security use the same foam lining as a photographers case.)
 
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