Since the principal application of magnesium fluoride is for use in the vacuum ultraviolet, this type of polarizing beam splitter is supplied as an optically contacted component only. Its operation is identical to that of the quartz Rochon. Both ordinary and extraordinary beams propagate collinearly down the optic axis in the first prism under the ordinary refractive index. Upon entering the second prism the ordinary beam experiences the same refractive index and continues undeviated. The extraordinary beam, however, now has a higher refractive index and is refracted at the interface. The angle of refraction is further increased at the exit surface.

Standard Rochon

Standard magnesium fluoride Rochons are manufactured as optically contacted components from synthetic crystal with a cut angle of 45°, giving a low wavelength cut-off of 120nm.

Separation Angle

The separation angle can be varied to suit customer requirements by changing the cut angle.

Mounts

These polarizers are supplied unmounted as free components unless mounting is specified at the time of ordering. The mount design is in the form of a simple tube with silicone rubber, giving access to the input and output beams. To specify mounted polarizers, simply add suffix: