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Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Fabrication of an Optical Cell Dryer for the Spectroscopic Analysis Cells

Fabrication of an Optical Cell Dryer for the Spectroscopic Analysis Cells

Published on: January 8, 2019

Achromatic athermalized retarder fabrication.

Anna-Britt Mahler¹, Stephen McClain, Russell Chipman

¹College of Optical Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, 85721, USA. mahler@email.arizona.edu

|February 24, 2011

Summary

Fabricating achromatic, athermalized quarter-wave retarders is challenging due to birefringence uncertainties. This new polishing method monitors retardance, ensuring precise fabrication despite variations for optical applications.

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Area of Science:

Optical Engineering
Materials Science
Metrology

Background:

Achieving precise retardance in optical components like quarter-wave retarders is critical for many applications.
Traditional fabrication methods struggle with uncertainties in material birefringence and thickness, impacting final performance.
Athermalized and achromatic retarders are essential for maintaining optical performance across varying temperatures and wavelengths.

Purpose of the Study:

To present a novel fabrication method for achromatic, athermalized quarter-wave retarders.
To overcome uncertainties in birefringence and thickness during the manufacturing process.
To ensure the final retarder meets stringent retardance and athermal specifications.

Main Methods:

A multi-step polishing process involving in-situ retardance monitoring.
Sequential measurement and adjustment of retardance targets for individual crystal plates (sapphire, MgF2, quartz).
Using the combined retardance spectrum of assembled plates to guide final thickness determination.

Main Results:

Successfully fabricated a quarter-wave retarder meeting specifications for the 0.470 to 0.865 μm wavelength region.
Achieved band-averaged retardance of 90°±10° across specified wavebands.
Demonstrated minimal retardance change (< 0.1° per 1°C) for athermal performance.

Conclusions:

The retardance-monitoring polishing method effectively compensates for birefringence and thickness uncertainties.
This technique enables reliable fabrication of high-performance achromatic, athermalized quarter-wave retarders.
Validated performance across a broad visible spectrum confirms the method's practical utility.