Low-coherence interferometry for phase-sensitive measurement of optical rotation.

ABSTRACT

We present phase-sensitive measurement of optical rotation using spectral-domain and time-domain low-coherence interferometry. The method utilizes two decorrelated polarization states and simultaneous dual-channel detection provided by polarization-maintaining fiber-based implementation. The sample is placed between polarization optics to control and switch left- and right-handed circular states that experience the sample in forward and backward directions. Phase difference between two interferometric signals yields the optical rotation. Results from glucose and fructose samples are presented for validation.