Refractive-index measurement of bulk materials: prism coupling method

Abstract

A simple method of measuring refractive indices of bulk materials using a prism coupling procedure is described. Refractive indices are determined from the measurement of the angle incident to the prism at which total reflection on the prism base breaks. This method is shown to possess the advantages of its simple procedure and sample preparation. The accuracy is comparable with that of minimum deviation method if the prism is well calibrated. Experimental results for several materials are given with an evaluation of possible errors.