Polarization Conversion Cube Corner Retro-Reflector

Abstract

This document presents the polarization conversion cube-corner retroreflector (PC-CCR). The PCCCR is a cube-corner retroreflector which transforms the electricfield as follows: the major axis is rotated by 90° and the handedness is reversed.Since the polarization properties of a CCR are dependent on the polarization properties of each surface, exploration of the space of Mueller matrices is organized by surface type. The Mueller matrix of CCR having each of several surface types is calculated, including the traditional hollow metal and solid glass CCR types. PCCCR only occur for non-isotropic surface types. Four particular surface polarization properties are found which produce PCCCR. Three examples of PCCCR are presented using sub-wavelength grating surfaces. Several other interesting CCR are presented, including a 45° polarization rotator.