Tower Optical has introduced a new series of zero-order and multiple-order crystal quartz waveplates. The 10mm zero order waveplates provide users with high perfromance and a clear aperture of 8mm. These waveplates have an air space between two crystal quartz plates that form the zero order capability. Zero order waveplates are far less sensitive to temperature variations while the air spaced construction provides higher thermal stability and power handling capability. As such, the company says that these waveplates are less prone to failure than contacted waveplates, which may come apart. Angular alignment of the two plates is also more accurate.
Each crystal quartz plate is anti-reflection coated on both sides, with standard retardations of ½ and ¼ wave. The waveplates are offered unmounted with a diameter of 10mm or mounted in a 12.7mm or 25.4mm anodised aluminium mounting ring, both of which offer a clear aperture of 8mm.
There are 49 standard wavelengths to choose from for multiple order waveplates, ranging from 248nm to 2,020nm. These same wavelengths are available for zero order waveplates but, in addition, the company can supply any wavelength which is in the range of ±20nm of any of the standard 49 wavelengths.