On “Scrambler Plates” Used to Depolarize Visible Radiation

A recent article1 by L. A. Rahn et al. in APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY accurately describes the function and potential problems of polarization scramblers. We recognized these problems several years ago and made appropriate changes to eliminate the problem completely. The optical configuration of the scrambler was compensated to eliminate beam deviations; and, in our newest sample illuminator (1419 A), the scrambler is moved to a position 15 cm from the entrance slit of the monochromator to increase its efficiency and illuminated area.