title: Optimal design of achromatic true zero-order waveplates using twisted nematic liquid crystal.
abstract: Phase retarders usually show strong wavelength dependence. A novel and simple configuration with the combination of two twisted nematic liquid-crystal cells is proposed for the design of a true zero-order achromatic quarter-wave plate. The present optimization method considers the material dispersion. Simulation computations show a good achromatic behavior of the optimized waveplate. Compared with other types of broadband quarter-wave plates, the present device is compatible with classical liquid-crystal displays and can be expected to be used in precision polarimeters with low cost and enhanced light efficiency.
authors.affiliation: Center for Optical and Electromagnetic Research, State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentation, Zhejiang University, Yu-Quan Campus, 310027 Hangzhou, China. shensu@coer.zju.edu.cn
authors.forename: Su
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Shen
authors.forename: Jun
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: She
authors.forename: Tao
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Tao