Mueller matrix of dense polystyrene latex sphere suspensions: measurements and Monte Carlo simulation

Abstract

Mueller matrices of dense aqueous suspensions of different concentrations are measured with a phase-modulated Mueller ellipsometer as a function of the scattering angle. Different concentrations of a solution containing 404-nm-diameter polystyrene latex spheres dispersed in water were prepared. Experimental results are compared with a three-dimensional Monte Carlo simulation of the propagation of photons with the cell geometry accounted for. The Fresnel laws and the Mie theory determine the changes in direction and polarization during the propagation of the photon. Excellent agreement over the whole angular range is found between experimental and simulated Mueller matrices.