This SBIR Phase I project is directed at developing a liquid crystal patterned phase mask that can be coupled with a CCD detector array to allow single-frame characterization of an image's polarization content in terms of Stokes vectors. A major objective of this project is to demonstrate a proof-of-concept for the use of the phase mask in a functional polarimeter through a display of its operation. Polarization imaging provides a greater set of information and can provide scene details normally inaccessible with intensity imaging alone. For example, a thin sheet of ice is normally difficult to detect with conventional imaging but is readily identified by examining its polarization signature. There is a broad interest in the effective use of polarized light in both the civilian and millitary sectors, especially with respect to hazard and target identification. Due to the adaptibility of the proposed phase mask approach, it is anticipated that real-time polarization imaging can be realized to complement existing technology and provide the end user with additional imaging enhancements.Anticipated Benefits/Commercial Applications: Through this development, it would be possible to carry out polarization sensing for better quality imaging for a vriety of military and commercial applications. This includes, but is not limited to, 2-D ellipsometry for sensing properties of surfaces and interfaces, spectra-polarimetry for chemical applications, remote sensing, astronomical polarimetry, polarization meteorology, and radar polarimetry. We believe that this technology development will result in a substantial cost reduction compared to currently available polarization analyzers and imagers.
