It thus lends itself to the fabrication of very thin low order retardation plates. Because suitable index matching cements do not transmit below 220nm, magnesium fluoride polarizers are manufactured by optically contacting the two prisms. Thin plates can be manufactured from this material for use in achromatic retardation plates. In these optical components the spectral dispersion of the magnesium fluoride is used to compensate that of quartz, producing a near uniform retardation over a defined spectral band. ADP is a difficult material, however, since it is very hygroscopic.
Consequently components require complete encapsulation from the atmosphere.
This necessitates the use of thin silica cover windows for good UV transmission, and appropriate protection around the component periphery. We hope this short tutorial has been of use to you. If you require further information on the birefringent materials we use, or on component possibilities, contact us. To leave this page return to home page .