Is it Possible to Make an MWIR Lens from Melted Table Salt?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the feasibility of creating a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) lens from melted table salt. The primary concern raised is the safety of heating and melting table salt, specifically whether it will simply melt or undergo decomposition. The secondary question addresses the potential for the melted salt to solidify into a monolithic structure without employing advanced methods like the Kyropoulos technique. The conversation also references a free paper detailing the Czochralski method for crystal growth, which may provide insights into the process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of MWIR optics and lens design
  • Knowledge of crystal growth techniques, specifically Czochralski and Kyropoulos methods
  • Familiarity with the properties and behavior of sodium chloride (table salt) when heated
  • Basic safety protocols for handling high temperatures in a laboratory setting
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Czochralski method for crystal growth in detail
  • Investigate the thermal properties and melting point of sodium chloride
  • Explore safety measures for melting salts in a controlled environment
  • Examine alternative materials for MWIR lenses beyond table salt
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for optical engineers, materials scientists, and hobbyists interested in experimental lens fabrication and crystal growth techniques.

Artlav
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I was thinking of making an MWIR lens from table salt, which is quite transparent for it.
That needs a big, monolithic cylinder of salt - 3x1 cm.
Now, growing it the classic-oversaturated-solution way would take forever, if feasible at all.
And i want to try to just melt some salt and cast the piece that way.

So, primary question - what kind of safety concerns are there about heating up and melting table salt?
Would it just melt, or start decomposing/reacting somehow?

And a secondary question - is there a point?
That is, would it solidify into something monolithic without using Kyropoulos method or similar?

Bonus question - given the goal above and a set of household materials, how would you proceed to achieve it?
 
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It should work. There are some relating papers but most of them are fee-based. Here is a free paper with a brief description of a Czochralski method:

http://144.206.159.178/ft/566/62884/1067612.pdf

You can also buy finished crystals:

http://www.2spi.com/catalog/submat/substr.shtml
 
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