Define the optical interface
The substrate sets the optical path, dimensional base and surface condition for the process that follows.
Soda-Lime Glass Substrates
Double-side-polished soda-lime glass substrates for chrome coating, photomask blanks and patterned optical components.
A practical glass base for optical patterns
Soda-lime glass is a sodium-calcium silicate glass used as a substrate for many photomask blanks and visible-light optical patterns. These substrates are supplied uncoated; chromium and photoresist coatings are specified separately. Material grade, dimensions, thickness, flatness and surface quality define the required blank.
Choose the product around the substrate, coating, pattern and exposure conditions that the finished component must support.
- Product type
- Optical glass substrate
- Pattern route
- Drawing-defined configuration
- Primary definition
- Material, geometry and surface follow the drawing
- Order basis
- Approved drawing and inspection plan
A stable starting point for patterned glass
Start with the job the component must perform, then confirm the material and geometry that make the result repeatable.
Separate component and system values
Material, coating and pattern tolerances describe the component. Exposure performance and system accuracy also depend on the instrument, process and mounting.
Keep the next process predictable
The supplied geometry, surface condition and inspection records are reviewed around the actual process instead of a generic product name.
Technical specifications
Consider it for visible-light reference patterns and compatible mask processes with moderate temperature changes and no specialised UV material requirement.
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| PropertyMaterial and optical role | SpecificationSoda-lime glass grade and material identification |
| PropertyGeometry and tolerances | SpecificationDimensions, thickness and edge finish |
| PropertySurface and clear aperture | SpecificationFlatness, thickness variation and surface quality |
| PropertyDefined requirement | SpecificationOperating wavelength, transmission and subsequent coating process |
Applications and selection
Consider it for visible-light reference patterns and compatible mask processes with moderate temperature changes and no specialised UV material requirement.
- Photomask and reticle fabrication
- Calibration targets and imaging references
- Encoder discs and patterned optical components
Customize around the process
Material, dimensions, surface, pattern, coating and documentation can be reviewed together when the standard configuration is not enough.
Material and geometry
Soda-lime glass grade and material identification
Surface and optical behaviour
Dimensions, thickness and edge finish
Documentation and packaging
Flatness, thickness variation and surface quality
Common questions
Short answers to the questions that affect material choice, pattern definition and acceptance.
Is soda-lime glass the same as borosilicate glass?
No. Soda-lime glass is sodium-calcium silicate glass; borosilicate glass is a different glass family containing boron oxide. Their thermal expansion and optical properties differ by grade. Specify the material explicitly rather than substituting one name for the other.
Acceptance and drawing inputs
Confirm these items after the product type and core parameters are selected. They define how the finished component is manufactured, checked and documented.
Inspection and acceptance
Verify material identification, dimensions, thickness, surface defects and flatness against the drawing. Define the inspection area and measurement method; specifications for a finished coated blank do not automatically apply to an uncoated substrate.
What to provide in the drawing or inquiry
- Soda-lime glass grade and material identification
- Dimensions, thickness and edge finish
- Flatness, thickness variation and surface quality
- Operating wavelength, transmission and subsequent coating process
Send the drawing, reference artwork or preliminary specification for manufacturing and inspection review.
Discuss this productSelection notes
Soda-lime glass substrates provide a customisable transparent base for coatings, photolithography and patterned optical components.
Match the material to downstream processing and operating conditions before specifying thickness, flatness, useful area and edges.
Information for your inquiry
Glass grade, outline, thickness, surface, clear aperture, chamfers and subsequent coatings.
Can I order uncoated glass?
Yes. Define the bare-substrate material and surface requirements; coating and pattern processing are separate supply options.