Polarization sensitive terahertz time-domain spectroscopy for birefringent materials

Abstract

We present a polarization sensitive terahertz detection method which is able to measure both orthogonal components of the terahertz electric field. It allows for the study of polarization dependent properties of materials. Azimuthal angle dependent transmittance in 0.2–2.6 THz frequency region for crystalline quartz is measured. Polarized terahertz transmission spectroscopy shows that birefringence can result in transmission minima. This work suggests that polarization sensitive detection is effective for removing fake absorption features caused by material birefringence.