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Analysis of throughput for multilayer infrared meanderline waveplates
Samuel L Wadsworth1, Glenn D Boreman
1University of Central Florida, CREOL - The College of Optics and Photonics, Orlando, Florida 32816, USA. swadswor@creol.ucf.edu
Optics Express
|July 1, 2010
Summary
Multilayered meanderline wave retarders enhance optical polarization control at infrared frequencies. These artificial structures improve transmission throughput via impedance matching, validated by simulations and measurements.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Metamaterials
- Electromagnetics
Background:
- Meanderline wave retarders are frequency-selective surfaces (FSS) that alter optical polarization.
- Their operation mimics crystalline waveplates by introducing phase offsets via slow and fast axes.
- Artificial structures offer tunable optical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the behavior and response of multilayered meanderline quarter-wave retarders.
- Optimize performance for 10.6 µm (28.28 THz) infrared applications.
- Demonstrate enhanced transmission throughput in multilayer designs.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations of multilayered meanderline structures.
- Experimental measurements of retarder performance.
- Analysis of impedance matching in multilayer optical coatings.
Main Results:
- Multilayered meanderline quarter-wave plates show improved transmission throughput.
- Performance enhancement is attributed to effective impedance matching.
- Simulated and measured data confirm the improved optical response.
Conclusions:
- Multilayer designs are superior to single-layer meanderline retarders for infrared applications.
- Impedance matching is a key factor in achieving high transmission.
- Meanderline wave retarders offer a viable artificial alternative to crystalline waveplates.
