JGS1 vs JGS2 vs JGS3 Quartz Glass
JGS1 vs JGS2 vs JGS3 Quartz Glass: UV Transmission, Thermal Stability & Applications
JGS1, JGS2, and JGS3 are the three most common grades of synthetic fused silica quartz glass, widely used in UV optics, semiconductor manufacturing, laboratory equipment, and high-temperature industrial systems.
Although they share the same base material, each grade differs significantly in UV transmission range, bubble/ inclusion content, thermal stability, and purity. Choosing the wrong grade can lead to reduced light efficiency, premature failure in high-temperature environments, or contamination risks in semiconductor processes.
This guide provides engineers, optical designers, and procurement teams with a full comparison of JGS1, JGS2, and JGS3, including spectral performance, key properties, industrial applications, and selection recommendations.
1. Core Property Comparison
| Parameter | JGS1 | JGS2 | JGS3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission Range | 185 nm – 2.5 μm | 220 nm – 2.5 μm | 260 nm – 2.5 μm |
| UV Cutoff | Far UV (deep UV) | Near UV | Near UV (low UV transmittance) |
| OH- Content | Lowest | Medium | High |
| Bubble & Inclusion Level | Ultra-low | Low | Standard |
| Thermal Shock Resistance | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Typical Applications | UV optics, deep UV lithography | UV curing, spectroscopy | High-temperature furnaces, general industrial |
| Relative Cost | Premium | Mid-range | Economical |
Grade Summary
- JGS1: Deep UV grade, ultra-high purity, optimized for applications requiring transmission below 220 nm.
- JGS2: Balanced UV transmission grade, ideal for most UV optical and laboratory applications.
- JGS3: General-purpose grade, prioritizes thermal stability over deep UV performance.
2. Spectral Performance
JGS1 (Deep UV Grade)
- Key Advantage: The only grade with high transmittance down to 185 nm, making it essential for deep UV lithography and vacuum UV applications.
- Limitation: Higher production cost due to strict purity and bubble control requirements.
JGS2 (UV Grade)
- Key Advantage: Excellent transmission from 220 nm through visible and near-IR, suitable for UV curing, fluorescence spectroscopy, and most common UV optics.
- Limitation: Poor performance below 220 nm.
JGS3 (General Grade)
- Key Advantage: Lowest cost, with good thermal shock resistance for high-temperature applications.
- Limitation: Significant absorption below 260 nm, not suitable for most UV optical systems.
3. Key Applications by Grade
When to Choose JGS1
- Deep UV lithography & semiconductor inspection
- Vacuum UV optical systems
- UV spectroscopy requiring <220 nm transmission
- High-precision optical windows for scientific instruments
When to Choose JGS2
- UV curing lamps and equipment
- UV sterilization systems
- Laboratory cuvettes and optical cells
- General UV optical components (lenses, windows, filters)
When to Choose JGS3
- High-temperature furnace tubes and components
- General industrial heating elements
- Non-UV optical applications requiring heat resistance
- Low-cost high-temperature glass parts
4. Common Selection Mistakes & Solutions
Mistake 1: Using JGS3 for UV Curing
- Problem: Poor UV transmittance leads to low curing efficiency.
- Solution: Upgrade to JGS2 for all UV curing applications.
Mistake 2: Using JGS1 for High-Temperature Furnace Tubes
- Problem: Unnecessary high cost with no performance benefit.
- Solution: JGS3 is fully sufficient for high-temperature industrial applications.
Mistake 3: Choosing JGS2 for Deep UV Lithography
- Problem: Inadequate deep UV transmission causes system failure.
- Solution: JGS1 is the only grade suitable for deep UV processes.
5. Custom Quartz Glass Solutions at Felix Glass
We offer precision custom quartz glass components in all three grades:
- JGS1 deep UV optical windows, lenses, and prisms
- JGS2 UV curing lamps, optical cells, and laboratory components
- JGS3 high-temperature furnace tubes, plates, and industrial parts
- Custom cutting, polishing, and coating services for all grades
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which grade is best for UV applications?
A: JGS2 is the standard choice for most UV applications. Choose JGS1 only if you need transmission below 220 nm.
Q: Can JGS3 be used for optical applications?
A: JGS3 is not recommended for optical systems due to its poor UV transmittance and higher inclusion levels.
Q: What is the main difference between JGS1 and JGS2?
A: The primary difference is the deep UV cutoff. JGS1 transmits down to 185 nm, while JGS2 starts at 220 nm.
Related Articles
Link: Sapphire IR Optics
Link: ZnS/ZnSe Infrared Components
