Polarization effects in the nonlinear interference of down-converted photons

TL;DR

This paper explores polarization effects in nonlinear interference of down-converted photons, introducing two new IR polarimetry methods that utilize visible light components for material analysis and quality control.

Contribution

It presents novel techniques for IR retardation measurement using nonlinear interference and polarization effects in down-converted photons.

Findings

Interference pattern depends on idler photon polarization rotation.

Two new IR polarimetry methods demonstrated with industry-standard accuracy.

Methods applicable to material research and optical inspection.

Abstract

We study polarization effects in the nonlinear interference of photons generated via frequency non-degenerate spontaneous parametric down conversion. Signal and idler photons generated in the visible and infrared (IR) range, are split in different arms of a nonlinear Michelson interferometer. The interference pattern for signal photons is detected, and it is shown to be dependent on the polarization rotation of idler photons, introduced by a birefringent sample. Based on this concept, we realize two new methods for measurement of sample retardation in the IR range by using well-developed and inexpensive components for visible light. The accuracy of the methods meets current industry standards. The developed IR polarimetry technique is relevant to material research, optical inspection, and quality control.