A Martin-Puplett interferometer (MPI) optical polarimeter: Design and laboratory tests

Area of Science:

• Plasma physics
• Fusion energy research
• Optical instrumentation

Background:

• Magnetic fields are critical in high-energy-density and magnetic confinement fusion.
• Accurate measurement of magnetic field topology is essential for understanding plasma behavior.
• Existing methods may have limitations in certain plasma environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel optical polarimeter for magnetic field measurement.
• To utilize the Faraday rotation effect for probing magnetic fields in plasmas.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of the Martin-Puplett interferometer (MPI) in this application.

Main Methods:

• Design and construction of an optical polarimeter based on the Martin-Puplett interferometer.
• Application of the Faraday rotation method for magnetic field sensing.
• Laboratory testing and comparison with a calibrated Gauss meter.

Main Results:

• Successful demonstration of the MPI polarimeter's measurement process.
• Experimental results closely matched measurements obtained from a Gauss meter.
• Verification of the polarimeter's polarization detection capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The developed MPI polarimeter is a viable tool for magnetic field measurement.
• This technology holds significant potential for applications in fusion physics and related fields.
• Further development could enhance its utility in complex plasma environments.