Spatial Fourier-transform polarimetry using space-variant subwavelength metal-stripe polarizers

A novel method for rapid polarization measurement is suggested. The method is based on a periodic space-variant polarizer that can be realized by use of subwavelength metal-stripe gratings. The Stokes parameters of the incident beam are determined by Fourier analysis of the space-variant intensity transmitted through the grating, thus permitting real-time polarization measurement. We discuss the design and realization of such polarizers and demonstrate our technique with polarization measurements Of CO2-laser radiation at a wavelength of 10.6 mum. (C) 2001 Optical Society of America.