Three polarization reflectometry methods for determination of optical anisotropy

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Optical anisotropy is a critical property in various materials.
• Accurate determination of anisotropy is essential for material characterization and device performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate three novel methods for quantifying optical anisotropy.
• To provide versatile techniques applicable to different anisotropic systems.

Main Methods:

• Special points method: Utilizes s- and p-polarized light reflectances and Brewster angle measurements.
• Azzam universal relationship method: Exploits the angular dependence of a specific combination of Fresnel coefficients.
• Interference method: Analyzes variations in optical path-length changes for s- and p-polarized beams with incidence angle.

Main Results:

• The special points method is applicable to any uniaxially anisotropic medium.
• The Azzam method reveals anisotropy through angular dependence, distinguishing isotropic from anisotropic samples.
• The interference method is effective for determining the anisotropy of thin films on substrates.

Conclusions:

• The proposed methods offer robust and adaptable approaches for optical anisotropy determination.
• These techniques enhance the characterization capabilities for anisotropic materials and thin films.