Abstract
A novel common-path polarization modulation and amplitude-sensitive optical heterodyne polarimeter is setup in order to characterize a phase retardation plate (PRP) in real time. The phase retardation ΔΦ and fast-axis angle β of the linear birefringence parameters (LBP) of a PRP are measured simultaneously. Meanwhile, the dynamic ranges of 0° < ΔΦ < 180° and 0° < β < 180° are demonstrated experimentally. In order to measure LBP in real time, a polarization modulation is introduced by continuously rotating the tested PRP such that ΔΦ and β are able to be obtained in terms of the ratio of the amplitudes of S polarization and the ratio of P polarization of the heterodyne signals, respectively. Consequently, this novel method, which combines optical heterodyne interferometry with a polarization modulation technique, not only improves the detection sensitivity, but also provides a real time capability to measure LBP. In addition, the error in the LBP measurement is derived and analyzed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 420-426 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Optics Communications |
Volume | 260 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 15 04 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Linear birefringence
- Optical heterodyne
- Polarization
- Wave plate