Calcium fluoride

Calcium fluoride (CAS 7789-75-5), also known commercially as fluorite or CaF2, is a naturally occurring mineral salt processed for industrial use. It serves as a primary fluorine source across metallurgical, optical, and chemical manufacturing processes.

In these sectors, controlled fluoride release is the critical performance requirement for various applications. In steelmaking and aluminum smelting, it acts as a flux, lowering the melting point of slag and improving metal flow during refining.

Optical-grade fluorite is machined into lenses, prisms, and windows for UV and infrared imaging systems. Its broad spectral transmission is the primary procurement driver for high-end optical and imaging equipment manufacturers.

The pulp and paper industry uses it in the production of hydrofluoric acid, which is then applied in bleaching and wood pulp processing. In mining and mineral processing, it functions as a flotation reagent for various ores.

It is also a vital feedstock for manufacturing fluorochemicals and fluoropolymers used in specialized coatings. The material is supplied as powder, granules, and lump ore, with purity levels ranging from metallurgical-grade to acid-grade.

Metallurgical grades typically range from 85–97% CaF2, while optical and acid-grade specifications reach 97–99% or higher. Technical and acid-grade specifications are standard for chemical manufacturing applications globally.

High-purity optical-grade material is available in processed crystal form for precision photonics applications. These specialized forms ensure maximum performance in sensitive laser and imaging systems across the technology sector.