Overhead projector transparency sheets as inexpensive wave plates: A Mueller matrix analysis

Abstract

We experimentally investigate anisotropy properties of commercial overhead projector transparency sheets using the Stokes-Mueller formalism and characterize the sheets in terms of coefficients of linear, diagonal and circular anisotropy, phase retardation, optic axis orientation, diattenuation and polarizance. We conclude by demonstrating that they can be used as inexpensive half and quarter wave plates.