Gallium Arsenide used for lenses and beam splitters provides an alternative to ZnSe in medium and high power CW CO₂ laser systems. It is most useful in applications where toughness and durability are important. Its hardness and strength make it a good choice where dust or abrasive particles tend to build up on or bombard the optical surfaces. When frequent cleaning by wiping is required, GaAs is excellent. The material is nonhygroscopic, safe to use in laboratory and field conditions and is chemically stable except when in contact with strong acids.