Mercurous Chloride Polarizer Material.

The report covers a feasibility study on the potential use of mercurous chloride crystals for construction of prism polarizers, primarily for the infrared region of the spectrum. In particular, the research has consisted of crystal growth from the vapor phase and optical characterization of the absorption, dichroism, and birefringence. Conditions for growth have not yet been optimized, but reasonably good growing conditions have been delineated. Single crystal samples have been oriented by Laue back-reflection techniques and measurements made of optical absorption, dichroism, and birefringence. Proper sample handling procedures have been determined to minimize thermal shock and thermal etching. The index of refraction has been measured at selected wavelengths, and calorimetric absorption studies have been performed at AFML on some of the samples produced. Modified author abstract