Self-calibration for a spatially modulated snapshot Mueller matrix imaging polarimeter

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Image Processing
• Metrology

Background:

• Traditional Mueller matrix imaging polarimetry calibration relies on external reference lights, which are prone to inaccuracies and environmental variations.
• Existing calibration methods can be complex, time-consuming, and susceptible to manual operational biases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a self-calibration technique for spatially modulated snapshot Mueller matrix imaging polarimeters.
• To eliminate the need for external reference lights, thereby improving calibration accuracy and simplifying the experimental setup.

Main Methods:

• A self-calibration method utilizing frequency-domain information from independent channels for spatial carrier frequency determination.
• Implementation within a snapshot Mueller matrix imaging polarimeter using modified Savart polariscopes.
• Modulation via Savart polariscopes and half-wave plates to generate interference fringes, followed by Fourier transforms for channel separation and inverse Fourier transforms for demodulation.

Main Results:

• Accurate reconstruction of 16 Mueller matrix elements is achieved through self-calibration algorithms.
• Numerical simulations and experimental results demonstrate high fidelity, with a structural similarity index exceeding 0.9.
• The technique successfully eliminates biases associated with reference light measurements and environmental changes.

Conclusions:

• The proposed self-calibration technique offers a high-resolution, low-bias solution for Mueller matrix imaging polarimetry.
• This method simplifies calibration and enhances accuracy, making it suitable for demanding applications.
• Significant potential exists for applications in biomedical science, materials research, and remote sensing.