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Polarization scramblers with plasmonic meander-type metamaterials
Philipp Schau1, Liwei Fu, Karsten Frenner
1Institut für Technische Optik and Research Center SCoPE, Universität Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 9, Stuttgart, Germany. schau@ito.uni-stuttgart.de
Optics Express
|October 6, 2012
Summary
This study introduces a novel polarization scrambler using metallic meander structures. The device effectively depolarizes light, offering a flexible design for visible wavelengths with significant bandwidth.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Plasmonics
- Metamaterials
Background:
- Metallic meander structures exhibit unique optical properties due to plasmonic excitations.
- These structures function as efficient linear polarizers and induce significant phase retardation.
- Their strong interaction with polarized light makes them suitable for optical manipulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a novel polarization scrambler design utilizing spatially distributed metallic meander structures.
- To investigate the depolarizing capabilities of this new design across various configurations and frequencies.
- To demonstrate the flexibility and effectiveness of the meander-based polarization scrambler.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and characterization of spatially distributed metallic meander structures with random angular orientations.
- Utilizing Mueller matrix polarimetry to quantify the depolarizing properties of the device.
- Investigating both single-layer and stacked meander structures at different frequencies.
Main Results:
- The polarization scrambler achieves depolarization rates exceeding 50% for arbitrarily polarized light.
- Circularly polarized light can be depolarized by up to 95% at 600 THz.
- The design offers flexibility for operation at any visible wavelength with a bandwidth up to 100 THz.
Conclusions:
- Spatially distributed metallic meander structures provide an effective platform for polarization scrambling.
- The proposed design demonstrates high depolarization efficiency and tunable bandwidth for visible light applications.
- This technology holds promise for advanced optical systems requiring precise control over light polarization.
