Achromatichalf-wave plate

Figure 1: Influences of selected glass component additions on the refractive index of a specific base glass (click image to enlarge)

Our control over crystal growth benefits customers who need larger sizes, high laser damage threshold performance, or more accurate retardation tolerances.

Superachromatic Waveplate

From crystal growth, crystal orientation, and cutting, to waveplate fabrication and coating, we have the most control over the fabrication of waveplates in the market.

From high transmission broadband anti-reflection coatings to V-coats for high energy applications, our extensive coating capabilities for precision optical components deliver performance across the spectrum from the UV to the FIR. Take a closer look at our optical coatings service.

Half-wave plate

An interesting relation exists between the refractive indices of glasses and their densities. This relation is certainly not always linear for all glass compositions. Figure 2 shows a typical diagram that can be obtained when calculating the densities (see density model) for experimental refractive index data, or when calculating the refractive indices for the experimental density data.

From crystal orientation to assembled product, we produce cutting-edge waveplates for a varied range of applications and customers.

The model for the refractive index, nD (λ = 589 nm), at room temperature is currently being updated for several weeks, possibly until March 2008. In the meantime, the following diagram and experimental data (110 kB) may be used for orientation. Please check back at a later time for more detailed information. The spider-graph below shows the influences of selected glass component additions on the elastic modulus of a specific base glass, while keeping the molar ratios of all remaining components constant. The spider-graph will be different for other base glass compositions.

Thorlabswaveplate

Thorlabsachromatic waveplate

According to Figure 2 a relatively high refractive index and low density can be obtained with glasses containing light metal oxides such as Li2O and MgO, while the opposite trend is obtained with glasses containing PbO and BaO.

For all wavelength ranges, we orient, cut, and polish the optical crystals for waveplate production. Tight internal controls enable better retardation tolerances within and between production runs. Polishing, coating, assembly, and metrology complete the manufacturing process.

Environmental testing of components and coatings is critical for the assurance of performance in rugged conditions. G&H environmental testing capabilities include MIL-C-675C, MIL-C-48497A, MIL-E-12397, and MIL-M-13508C for endurance against abrasion, adhesion, humidity, temperature, and environmental conditions.

As the world's only entirely vertically integrated CdS, CdSe, KDP and KD*P waveplate producer, we deliver accurate performance for demanding applications.

Edmund OpticsAchromatic waveplate

Achromatic waveplateprice

We have made a significant investment in metrology equipment to ensure that our customers receive quality, high-performing precision optical components. More details on our metrology capabilities can be found on our metrology page.

Waveplates transmit light and modify its polarization state without attenuating, deviating, or displacing the beam. They do this by delaying one component of polarization with respect to its orthogonal component.

Compound zero-order (also known as net-zero order) and achromatic waveplates are often optically contacted to reduce reflection losses at the surfaces. Air-spacing is recommended for high-energy applications. Specialty waveplate designs such as off-axis or true-zero order waveplates are produced to custom specifications.