Experimental limits for eigenvalue calibration in liquid-crystal Mueller-matrix polarimeters.

Area of Science:

• Optical physics
• Metrology
• Polarimetry

Background:

• Mueller-matrix polarimetry is crucial for characterizing optical properties.
• Accurate calibration is essential for reliable Mueller-matrix measurements.
• Liquid-crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) are used in modern polarimeters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the experimental conditions required for successful eigenvalue calibration of LCVR-based Mueller-matrix polarimeters.
• To quantify the maximum allowable experimental errors for accurate calibration.

Main Methods:

• A numerical study was conducted simulating a polarimeter with known errors.
• The error between simulated and ideal Mueller matrices for four calibration samples was analyzed.
• Maximum experimental errors were estimated based on the deviation from ideal matrices.

Main Results:

• The study established critical experimental tolerances for eigenvalue calibration.
• It was found that the orientation of retarder axes is more sensitive to errors than the retardation values.
• Specific maximum error thresholds were estimated for successful calibration.

Conclusions:

• Precise control over retarder axis orientation is paramount for accurate LCVR-based Mueller-matrix polarimeter calibration.
• Understanding these error tolerances improves the reliability and precision of polarimetric measurements.
• The findings provide practical guidance for experimental setup and calibration procedures.