Thorlabs

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

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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.

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

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.