Looking for polymer that transmits infrared and visible spectrum

[kredinger]

I have a need for a polymer that will transmit infrared and visible spectrum. I have an Electrical background so I could use some expertise in this area. Any help identifying a source for this polymer or an approach to source it would be appreciated.

 

[IRstuff]

What do you mean by "infrared;" it covers 700nm to 70000nm

TTFN
faq731-376

 

[kredinger]

Thanks for asking, I should have included that. The range I need good transmittance is 8 to 14um.

 

[IRstuff]

http://www.compuscanir.com/downloads/10_Things_You_Need_to_Know_About_Infrared_Windows.pdf

http://www.iriss.com/files/data-sheets/PDF/VPFR Data Sheet_Final.pdf

Saran Wrap seems to work OK for some applications.

You haven't said what other requirements are imposed.

TTFN
faq731-376

 

[TomDOT]

How much transmission do you need? How thick of a polymer? all of the common organic polymer bonds I can think of have some strong absorption bands in the IR region.

Usually I'm thinking in cm-1 when it comes to IR due to time on FTIR instruments...

Can you live with 8~13.5um? Polyethylene(PE) is pretty darn clear in that region, but has some strong bands from 13.5-14. Some PE crowds a bit on the 8 end as well. If I recall correctly, HDPE is better on the 8 end.

PE is the best I can come up with for a common organic polymer.

I don't suppose you could use a crystal like KBr, Germanium or sapphire... those are commonly used as FTIR windows and/or lenses.