What is a major downside of using sodium chloride for infrared domes?

Using sodium chloride for infrared domes presents a significant drawback due to its high solubility in water. This characteristic makes sodium chloride unsuitable for many operational environments where exposure to moisture is inevitable. When water comes into contact with sodium chloride, it dissolves, compromising the integrity of the infrared dome and potentially leading to failures in performance or functionality.

Other materials used for infrared domes are often chosen specifically because they possess better resistance to environmental factors, including moisture. This solubility issue can lead to degradation over time, which is critical for maintaining the effectiveness of infrared systems in military applications, where reliability and durability are essential.