Polarization Optics

Polarization optics are optical components that select or change a specific polarization state of light, which is necessary in a variety of imaging applications to increase contrast, eliminate hot spots or glare, and to measure changes in magnetic fields, temperature, chemical interactions, etc. Linear polarizers, polarizing beamsplitters, polarizing crystals and prisms, circular polarizers, depolarizers, polarization rotators and waveplates come in a variety of materials to accomplish these purposes. Quartz (crystalline SiO2), Soda-Lime Float Glass or BK7 are commonly used in polarization optics.

At MEETOPTICS you can filter, compare, and select different types of polarization optics from trusted suppliers, among which you can find: Thorlabs, Edmund Optics, EKSMA Optics, Codixx, OptoSigma, Knight Optical, and the custom optical suppliers Comar, LAYERTEC, and LaCroix. Choosing the right polarization optic is essential to ensure its performance. Dichroic polarizers combine wavelength sensitive beam splitting with polarization capabilities. Crystalline polarizers' properties offer high damage threshold and high extinction ratios that match laser applications' requirements. Quarter-wave plates (λ/4 plates) and half-wave plates (λ/2 plates) are used in laser resonators and Wire Grid Polarizers are ideal for broadband applications.