Preparation of low cost NaCl single crystal for IR optical window applications

Single crystals of sodium chloride (NaCl) of dimension 1 × 1 cm 2 have been successfully grown from various solution growth methods like slow evaporation, fast evaporation, and slow cooling techniques. The crystalline qualities of the samples grown from the above methods were assessed using X-ray rocking curve and 2 θ scan measurements. The grown crystals were also characterized for its optical transmission in IR region. Infact the crystal possesses ~ 76% optical transparency in the IR regime and it approaches the transparency value of the commercially available crystal. The cost estimation of laboratory grown crystal and as well as the standard NaCl optical window wafer (Commercial sample) has been compared, so as to ensure the feasibility of growing NaCl wafers at an affordable price. The obtained results have been discussed in detail.