Low-order waveplates are commonly used phase retardation elements in the optical field, with their core function being to apply a fixed low-order phase difference to incident polarized light. Half-wave plates can rotate the vibration direction of linearly polarized light, while quarter-wave plates can convert linearly polarized light into circularly polarized light. Low-order waveplates are compact in size, easy to install, and can be integrated into optical paths to achieve polarization state control.
High phase retardation accuracy.
Clear operating wavelength range.
Simple structure, mostly parallel planar optical elements.
| Material | Magnesium Fluoride or Quartz |
| Retardance Accuracy (Typical) | < λ/300 |
| Beam Deviation | < 10 arcsec |
| Diameter Tolerance | +0.0,-0.1mm |
| Surface Quality | 40-20 |
