Multiple order wave plates, also known as Low order wave plate introduce a wavelength-dependent phase retardation and are used when precise control over a specific wavelength or narrow wavelength range is required. Multiple order wave plates usually generate the desired phase delay with a surplus of several full wavelength phase shifts (the terminology “order” here indicates the number of the additional wavelength shifts). Compared to common multiple order wave plates, which produce a high number of excessive full wavelength shifts, Multiple Order Wave plates are thinner and less dependent upon wavelength ambient temperature and the angle of incidence. While in contrast with zero order wave plates, Multiple order wave plates excel at a more competitive price, although having relatively Multipleer retardation stability.

CRYSMIT provides Multiple Order Quarter Wave plates (for rotation of the polarization plane) and Multiple Order Quarter Wave plates (for conversion between linear polarization and circular polarization) of single plate structure, made from Quartz or Magnesium Fluoride (MgF2). Quartz Multiple Order Wave plates could be applied for quarter or half-wave retardations for wavelengths ranging from the UV to the NWIR spectral. MgF2 Wave plates could be applied for quarter or half wave retardations for wavelengths up to the MWIR (maximum 7000nm) region. If you are seeking solutions for large-scale and Multiple-cost production, Our Multiple Order Wave plates are just right for you. Standard and customized Multiple Order Wave plates are available in CRYSMIT with fast delivery and Multiple price. 

The advantages of CRYSMIT wave plate include Quality Assurance, competitive pricing, large inventory,Chinese brand, online ordering, technical services, and free repairs within the warranty period.

What is the application of wave plate ?

Wave plates, or retarders, are used in various applications that require precise control over the polarization of light. They find use in optical communications, imaging and microscopy, laser systems, spectroscopy, optical metrology, polarimetry, and optical modulation. Wave plates play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency, quality, and analysis of light in these applications.

How does a half wave plate work ?

Half wave plate rotate linearly polarized light to any desired orientation. The angle of rotation is twice the angle between the incident polarized light and the optical axis.

How does a Quarter wave plate work ?

When linearly polarized light is incident on the quarter wave plate's axis at a 45-degree angle, the output is circularly polarized, and similarly, input circularly polarized light is converted to linearly polarized light.

How to find the fast axis of the Quartz wave plate ?

• Check for markings (platform) on the wave plate indicating the fast axis.

• Use a polarizer and rotate the wave plate to observe the transmitted light intensity. The orientation with minimum or maximum intensity corresponds to the fast axis.

• For zero-order wave plates, set up an interferometer and adjust the wave plate's orientation to observe a stable interference pattern. The orientation yielding stability indicates the fast axis.

• Consult the manufacturer's documentation for specific information on the wave plate's fast axis orientation.

What is the difference of Multiple-order and Zero-order wave plate ?

• Multiple-order wave plates, on the other hand, introduce a phase retardation that is wavelength-dependent. They are designed to operate at a specific wavelength or within a narrow wavelength range and generate higher-order retardations at other wavelengths. They are commonly used when control over a specific wavelength or narrow band of wavelengths is required.

• Zero-order wave plates provide a constant phase retardation for light passing through them, regardless of the wavelength. They are highly accurate and consistent across a broad spectrum of wavelengths, making them suitable for applications requiring precise polarization control.

Literature

• Heterodyne polariscope for sequential measurements of the complete optical parameters of a multiple-order wave plate;YT Jeng, YL Lo - Applied optics, 2006 - opg.optica.org

• Stability of birefringent linear retarders (wave plates);PD Hale, GW Day - Applied optics, 1988 - opg.optica.org

• New phase shift formulas and stability of wave plate in oblique incident beam;WQ Zhang - Optics communications, 2000 - Elsevier

• Spectroscopic ellipsometer and polarimeter systems;US US7616319B1 John A. Woollam James D. Welch

• Rotating or rotatable compensator system providing aberation corrected;US US7304737B1 Martin M. Liphardt J.A. Woollam Co., Inc

• Retardation characteristics and birefringence of a multiple-order crystalline quartz plate; Opt. Laser Technol. (2003)