High-quality dichroic circular polarizer for research and industry
The Dichroic circular polarizer Meadowlark's dichroic linear polarizer combines the properties of a dichroic linear polarizer with a true zero-order quarter-wave plate to create a high-precision optical component. By carefully aligning the retarder's fast axis at exactly 45 degrees to the polarization direction of the linear polarizer, highly efficient conversion of linearly to circularly polarized light is achieved. This principle makes the component an effective solution for the selective separation of left- and right-hand circularly polarized light. In optical systems where controlled polarization is essential, the dichroic circular polarizer delivers precise and reproducible results.
Technical features of the dichroic circular polarizer
The construction of the dichroic circular polarizer is based on the lamination of the optical components between plano-optical substrates with minimal wavefront distortion below λ/5. This ensures that the optical quality is maintained even in sensitive applications. The additional anti-reflective coated windows minimize reflection losses while increasing the transmission efficiency of the overall system. The polarizer offers high isolation and is available in various diameters, which facilitates its integration into optical setups of different sizes. To ensure full functionality, it is important to ensure that the marking on the housing is correctly aligned with the beam direction during installation. By default, the product is designed for operation at a specific wavelength, but achromatic versions operating in an extended spectral range are also available upon request.
Application areas of the dichroic circular polarizer
Typical areas of application of the dichroic circular polarizer lie in optical metrology, particularly in spectroscopy and polarimetric analysis, where circular polarization must be used specifically. This component is also in demand in laser optics, for example, for modifying or processing beam profiles. Research institutes and development departments in the field of photonics also rely on this polarizer when it comes to converting linear polarization into circular polarization or separating them. Due to its high precision and robust construction, the dichroic circular polarizer is a reliable element in demanding optical applications – whether in the laboratory, in industry, or in basic research.
