Methods for optical phase retardation measurement:A review

Optical-phase-retardation elements are widely used in many fields.Accurate measurement of their phase retardation is crucial to the practical effect of the element's processing and application.The development and present situation of the methods for optical phase retardation measurement are reviewed,with the wave plate,the most typical phase-retardation element,as an example.The latest research progress in this field is introduced;the principles and characteristics of individual measurement method are summarized and discussed.Three new methods based on laser frequency splitting or laser feedback are presented in detail,in which the laser is not only regarded as a light source but also plays a role of sensor.Moreover,no standard wave plates are needed and arbitrary phase retardation can be measured.Traceability,high precision and high repeatability are achieved as well.