Conical refraction as a tool for polarization metrology

A method for polarization metrology based on the conical refraction (CR) phenomenon, occurring in biaxial crystals, is reported. CR transforms an input Gaussian beam into a light ring whose intensity distribution is linked to the incoming polarization. We present the design of a division-of-amplitud...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Peinado Capdevila, Alba|||0000-0003-3046-3842, Turpin Avilés, Alejandro|||0000-0001-7877-782X, Lizana, Angel|||0000-0002-4861-8657, Fernandez Moreno, Estefania|||0000-0002-6850-2985, Mompart Penina, Jordi|||0000-0002-9634-9455, Campos Coloma, Juan|||0000-0002-2479-4373
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2013
País:España
Institución:Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Repositorio:Dipòsit Digital de Documents de la UAB
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:ddd.uab.cat:118175
Acceso en línea:https://ddd.uab.cat/record/118175
https://dx.doi.org/urn:doi:10.1364/OL.38.004100
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Òptica
Descripción
Sumario:A method for polarization metrology based on the conical refraction (CR) phenomenon, occurring in biaxial crystals, is reported. CR transforms an input Gaussian beam into a light ring whose intensity distribution is linked to the incoming polarization. We present the design of a division-of-amplitude complete polarimeter composed of two biaxial crystals, whose measurement principle is based on the CR phenomenon. This design corresponds to a static polarimeter, that is, without mechanical movements or electrical signal addressing. Only one division-of-amplitude device is required, besides the two biaxial crystals, to completely characterize any state of polarization, including partially polarized and unpolarized states. In addition, a mathematical model describing the system is included. Experimental images of the intensity distribution related to different input polarization states are provided. These intensity patterns are compared with simulated values, proving the potential of polarimeters based on biaxial crystals.