Overview
EN ISO 24013:2023 (ISO 24013:2023) - Optics and photonics - Lasers and laser-related equipment - Measurement of phase retardation of optical components for polarized laser radiation - specifies standardized test methods to determine the linear optical phase retardation introduced by optical components when illuminated with polarized laser beams. This European adoption (CEN) supersedes EN ISO 24013:2006 and updates procedures, alignment tolerances and evaluation methods for modern laser metrology.
Key Topics
- Scope and purpose: Defines measurement methods for relative phase retardation with respect to X/Y (or s/p) polarization axes for transmissive and reflective optics.
- Measurement principle: Irradiation of the component with a defined polarized laser beam and analysis of the output polarization state to quantify phase retardation.
- Test arrangement and preparation:
- Laser beam preparation (beam quality, polarization state).
- Sample alignment and system calibration for reflective and transmissive samples (including a horizontal optical axis step for transmissive optics).
- Detection system requirements: polarization analyser and power detector.
- Test procedures: Specific procedures for measuring phase retardances around 0, π/2, and values near π, with separate workflows when absorptance differences between polarization directions are zero or non‑zero.
- Evaluation and reporting:
- Methods to compute phase retardation and handle absorptance differences.
- Required content for the test report and reference to theoretical background (informative annex).
- Referenced normative documents: ISO 11145 (vocabulary & symbols), ISO 12005 (laser polarization test methods), and practical references to ISO 14644‑1 for cleanroom context where applicable.
Applications
Who uses EN ISO 24013:2023 and why:
- Optics manufacturers - to characterize and certify phase retarders, waveplates, substrates, coatings and elements used in polarization‑sensitive systems.
- Suppliers and procurement teams - to specify measurement acceptance criteria for delivered optical components.
- Laser system integrators and OEMs - to ensure polarization fidelity in systems for communications, lidar, microscopy, and precision metrology.
- Test laboratories and calibration facilities - to perform repeatable, traceable phase retardation measurements and issue standardized reports.
- Quality and R&D engineers - to validate production processes, coating effects and alignment sensitivities that affect polarized laser radiation.
Related Standards
Keywords: EN ISO 24013:2023, ISO 24013:2023, phase retardation measurement, polarized laser radiation, optics and photonics, lasers, phase retarder testing, polarization measurement.