Abstract:A simple method for Mueller matrix polarimetry is proposed. The experimental set up is based on using an azimuthally polarized input beam, which presents all possible linearly polarized states across its transverse section, and an adapted commercial light polarimeter for analyzing the polarization state of the output beam. It will be shown that by measuring the Stokes parameters at only three different positions across the output beam section, the complete Mueller matrix of linear deterministic samples can be easily determined.

Abstract:A new model of physically realizable electromagnetic source is proposed. The source is partially coherent and non-uniformly totally polarized. The coherence and polarization characteristics of this new source are analyzed. The spatial coherence area of the source can be easily modified at will. The state of polarization is linear across the transverse plane of the source with an azimuth that varies from point to point in a different way depending on the selected values of the parameters that define the source.