Single-pulse, Kerr-effect Mueller matrix LiDAR polarimeter

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Remote Sensing Technologies
• Polarimetry

Background:

• Mueller matrix polarimetry is crucial for characterizing light-scattering materials.
• Existing methods often require multiple measurements or slower acquisition times.
• Advanced polarization state generators (PSGs) are needed for faster, more comprehensive measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a novel LiDAR polarimeter capable of rapid Mueller matrix element measurement.
• To utilize Kerr phase modulation in a birefringent optical fiber for polarization state generation.
• To compare the performance of Kerr effect-based PSG with electro-optic modulator-based PSG.

Main Methods:

• A new polarization state generator (PSG) employing Kerr phase modulation in a birefringent optical fiber was designed.
• Theoretical expressions for the PSG Stokes vector were derived, considering birefringent walk-off.
• A time-dependent polarimeter signal model with multiple polarization state analyzers (PSAs) was developed.
• Experimental validation of the Kerr effect PSG was performed.

Main Results:

• The novel LiDAR polarimeter successfully measured 12 out of 16 Mueller matrix elements in a single 10 ns pulse.
• The Kerr effect PSG generates a probe pulse with temporally varying polarization.
• Polarimeter modeling indicated comparable performance between Kerr effect and electro-optic modulator-based PSGs.

Conclusions:

• The developed Kerr effect-based LiDAR polarimeter offers a significant advancement in rapid Mueller matrix measurement.
• This technology enables faster characterization of scattering samples compared to conventional methods.
• The study validates the effectiveness of Kerr phase modulation for advanced polarimetric sensing.