Basic optical properties of the photoelastic modulator part I: useful aperture and acceptance angle

Baoliang Wang; Jennifer List

doi:10.1117/12.617904

18 August 2005 Basic optical properties of the photoelastic modulator: Part I. Useful aperture and acceptance angle

Baoliang Wang, Jennifer List

Proceedings Volume 5888, Polarization Science and Remote Sensing II; 58881I (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.617904
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The photoelastic modulator (PEM) is a resonant polarization modulator. It operates at the resonant frequency of a desired mechanical vibration mode of its optical element. The PEM is made of isotropic optical materials, in contrast to the birefringent materials used in electro-optic modulators. These two characteristics, operation at resonance and the use of isotropic optical materials, give the PEM unique optical properties, such as high modulation purity and efficiency, broad spectral range, high power handling capability, large acceptance angle, large useful aperture and good retardation stability. These properties make the PEM an effective polarization modulator in a variety of high sensitivity applications. In this first paper in a series, we focus on studying two basic optical properties of the PEM: useful aperture and acceptance angle.

Citation Download Citation

Baoliang Wang and Jennifer List "Basic optical properties of the photoelastic modulator: Part I. Useful aperture and acceptance angle", Proc. SPIE 5888, Polarization Science and Remote Sensing II, 58881I (18 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.617904

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