Alpha Barium Borate (α-BaB₂O₄)

α-BBO

The high temperature phase of Alpha Barium Borate, α-BaB₂O₄ is an excellent birefringent crystal characterised by a large birefringent coefficient and a very wide transmission window from approximately 190nm to 3500nm. Its high UV transparency and good mechancial properties make it an excellent choice for high power UV polarisation optics.

The physical, chemical and thermal properties of α-BBO crystals are similar to β-BBO: good optical homogeneity, low absorption in the UV range, low hygroscopic susceptibility and high damage threshold.

Diameters of up to 40mm are available, whilst a length of up to 30mm can also be specified. Customers may also specify an appropriate optical coating for the crystal.