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High resolution group refractive index measurement by broadband supercontinuum interferometry and wavelet-transform
Optics Express
|June 18, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a novel method for measuring group refractive index using spectral interferometry and a supercontinuum light source. The technique offers high-resolution, absolute measurements without mechanical scanning.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Accurate measurement of group refractive index is crucial for optical material characterization.
- Traditional methods often require complex setups or mechanical scanning, limiting resolution and speed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a high-resolution, non-contact method for absolute group refractive index measurement.
- To utilize a broadband supercontinuum generated in a Microstructured Optical Fibre (MOF) for enhanced interferometric measurements.
Main Methods:
- A spectral interferometric setup employing a broadband supercontinuum generated in an air-silica MOF.
- Spectroscopic Analysis of White Light Interferograms (SAWLI) for dispersion measurements.
- Phase calculation using a wavelet transform combined with curve fitting of spectral intensity.
Main Results:
- High fringe visibility achieved, enabling precise dispersion measurements.
- High-resolution, absolute group refractive index measurements obtained from a single 2D spectral interferogram.
- Elimination of mechanical scanning simplifies the experimental setup and enhances measurement speed.
Conclusions:
- The proposed method provides an efficient and accurate approach for group refractive index determination.
- This technique is suitable for characterizing optical properties of various materials with high precision.
- The use of MOF-generated supercontinuum offers significant advantages for spectral interferometry.
