Wollaston Polarizing Prism
The Wollaston prism is commonly used as a polarization beam splitter. It splits unpolarized incident light into two orthogonally polarized output beams. The two outgoing beams are approximately symmetrical about the incident optical axis, with their polarization planes parallel and perpendicular to the plane of incidence respectively.
The mounted Wollaston prism is encapsulated in an aluminum housing. A white alignment mark is engraved on the output end face of the housing. Light enters from the retaining ring side and is divided into two mutually perpendicular polarized beams (o-ray and e-ray) after passing through the prism. Both output beams lie in the same horizontal plane as the white marking line.
The Wollaston prism is cemented by two identical negative uniaxial crystal prisms with mutually perpendicular optical axes. Its separation angle depends on the operating wavelength and material properties, and it is widely used in polarization analyzers and spectrometers. This series of Wollaston prisms is made of Iceland spar — a colorless transparent variety of calcite — and coated with MgF₂ protective film.
- Covers spectral bandwidth across visible and mid-infrared ranges
- Cemented structure, suitable for low power lasers
Parameters
| Material | Calcite* | Beam Deviation | 15°@1064 nm |
| Extinction Ratio | 10⁵: 1 | Housing | Hard aluminum, black anodized |
| Wavelength Range | Calcite: 300 nm~2500 nm | Damage Threshold | CW: 50 W/cm² |
| Transmittance | > 85%, λ0 = 632.8 nm | Pulse: 100 MW/cm² |
* YVO4 Upon request. YVO4: 500-4000 nm.
- Calcite is a temperature-sensitive crystal. Large temperature fluctuations may cause cracking. Please store and use it in a proper environment. Allow the component to reach thermal equilibrium for 6–8 hours before unpacking.
- Calcite is a soft material susceptible to scratches. Handle with care, avoid touching the optical surfaces, and clean only with an air blower.
Model
| Material | Aperture, mm | Outer Dia., mm | Extinction Ratio | Beam Deviation |
| Calcite | 8 10 15 20 | Φ25.4 Φ25.4 Φ30 Φ38 | 10⁵:1 | 15°@1064 nm |

