THE FOUR-FASE STRAIGHT VIEW TOTAL INTERNAL REFLECT SPECTRAL PRISM-POLARIZER

The laser emission polarization and control of its spectrum by means of low-loss prisms is a problem of considerable importance which has been addressed in a great number of research papers. The known polarizers, especially straight view prisms, are characterized by certain disadvantages arising from losses of light energy and/or a need for additional reflecting coatings. These are not always acceptable for laser application, and the problem of spectral control may require the use of additional elements in the laser cavity. In this paper a four-facet, straight view spectral polarizing prism is described involving no cemented components for controlling the laser polarization and spectrum. The effect is due to additional total internal reflection surfaces inside the prism. Theoretical calculations have confirmed feasibility of such a prism for relatively simple, e. g. rhomboid configuration, and the possibility of manufacturing the device in a simple way. The prototype embodied has been tested and showed an effective laser polarization and possibility of its spectral control. This prism can greatly simplify the procedures for laser tuning, providing new possibilities for polarizational and spectral control of the laser emission and generation of two orthogonal polarized rays which may be useful for effective frequency conversation in nonlinear crystals.