Orthogonal Polarization in Lasers

Book excerpt: Lasers generally emit radiation, which is either simply linearly polarized or unpolarized and stochastically polarized. Contrary to these common lasers, all orthogonally polarized lasers simultaneously emit radiation in two linear polarization states, both exactly orthogonally oriented to each other. Due to this orthogonality, both polarized components in the beam are independent of each other to a high degree and the studies presented in this book make clear that this feature can give a strong advantage in certain laser applications, for instance in high-precision measurements. Orthogonal Polarization in Lasers: Physical Phenomena and Engineering Applications summarizes the basics and advanced research results of orthogonally polarized lasers, birefringence laser cavities, and their applications. The authors include a number of figures, experimental designs, and measurement curves to enable the reader to not only learn the basic principles and technologies but also to understand many applications in modern engineering and to start their own R&D projects. The book covers polarization effects, which are of fundamental importance across various disciplines of science and technology. Includes a number of figures, experimental designs, and measurement curves to help readers learn the basic principles and start their own R&D projects. Discusses many types of relevant lasers (helium/neon lasers, ND:YAG lasers, semiconductor lasers, laser diodes). Written by multiply-published authors in the subject area. Contains material useful for metrology applications. This book is intended for use by researchers, postgraduates, and engineers working in laser science, optics, and measurement and testing, while senior undergraduate students working in optical and laser science can use the book for advanced understanding in their field.