Mica Waveplates are precision optical components fabricated from ultra-thin laminae cleaved from a natural mica block. Each waveplate consists of a single crystalline sheet, resulting in a zero order design that ensures minimal dispersion.

As a natural mineral, mica exhibits inherent absorption, which becomes more pronounced at shorter wavelengths, limiting its suitability for ultraviolet applications. However, mica waveplates offer a unique advantage: they can be produced in exceptionally large diameters up to 250 mm, making them ideal for applications requiring extensive aperture sizes.

To enhance mechanical stability and durability, the thin mica sheets are cemented between two polished cover glasses made of N-BK7. Our mica waveplates are unmounted from stock, but can also be delivered with a cylindrical holder on request for easy integration into optical systems. An optional antireflection coating on the cover glasses is also available to minimize reflection losses and improve transmission efficiency.

We offer mica waveplates with either half-wave (λ/2) or quarter-wave (λ/4) retardation for your specific wavelength within the spectral transmission range. The wavelength must be specified at the time of order to ensure optimal performance for your application.

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