Infrared (IR) Wire Grid Polarizers

Infrared (IR) Wire Grid Polarizers are used to polarize light from unpolarized infrared laser sources, as well as attenuate light from polarized ones. When two wire grid polarizers are used together, high extinction ratios greater than 40,000:1 can be achieved. The polarization axis of each polarizer is marked by two white lines etched into the surface of its protective ring. Infrared (IR) Wire Grid Polarizers are used in a variety of medical imaging, aerospace, FTIR spectrophotometry, and analytical instrumentation applications.

Infrared (IR) Wire Grid Polarizers are manufactured by a special holographic technique that creates sub-micron wire grid spacing. Compared to conventional ruled wire grid methods, the holographic method creates finer groove spacing which optimizes short wavelength performance. We offer holographic wire grid polarizers of Barium Fluoride (BaF2), Zinc Selenide (ZnSe), Thallium Bromoiodide (KRS-5), and Germanium (Ge). 

Note: Special care should be taken when handling KRS-5 and Zinc Selenide as they are toxic materials. Always wear rubber or plastic gloves to avoid risk of contamination. The active wire-grid surface of the polarizer is extremely delicate and nothing should be allowed to touch it, as this can damage the optic. Only dry air is recommended as a cleaning method. If necessary, this optic should be handled by the edges only and with protected fingers.