Classification of Optical Lens Materials

Optical lens materials can be generally classified into two major categories:

1. Optical Glass

   As the most widely used material for conventional optical lenses, optical glass features high transparency, stable optical performance, and good processability. It is ideal for imaging, lighting, and general laser optical systems.
2. Optical Crystals

   Including fused silica (quartz), sapphire, calcium fluoride, and other crystal materials, they exhibit excellent thermal stability, high laser damage threshold, and outstanding transmittance in ultraviolet, visible, and infrared bands. These materials are widely used in high‑power lasers, optical communication, medical devices, and precision optical instruments.