Infrared Polarizer Selection

The selection of a polarizer for use in the 1-12 pm wavelength range usually involves compromises among performance specifications. The University of Dayton Research Institute has investigated many different types of infrared (IR) polarizers to optimize this selection for ellipsometric instrumentation constructed for the Air Force High-Energy Laser program. Performance specifications for polarizers are discussed with particular emphasis on IR polarizers. Types of polarizers suitable for use in the IR are reviewed along with advantages and disadvantages of each. The performance of specific polarizers is also discussed. The information presented should be sufficient for a designer to specify and select the polarizer type best suited to his application.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.