Study of stokes polarimeters based on a single twisted nematic liquid crystal panel

In this work, we present the design, optimization and implementation of dynamic Stokes polarimeters based on a single Twisted Nematic Liquid Crystal (TN-LC) panel. TN-LC material enables both to introduce a retardance and to rotate the polarization ellipse orientation. For this reason, a simple setup composed by a transmissive TN-LC panel and a polarizer can be built, leading to a complete Stokes polarimeter. Variations of the initial setup are analyzed with the aim of minimizing the noise propagation to the Stokes vector calculations. In particular, working out of normal incidence to the TN-LC panel and working on TN-LC reflective mode. Moreover, we carry out an optimization of the polarization analyzers used in each configuration. Finally, we implement the optimized polarimeters and some incident Stokes vectors are measured, proving their correct operation. Results are compared with those provided by a commercial polarimeter and so, the suitability of applying a TN-LC panel on polarimeters design is confirmed.