Tower’s 10mm Zero order waveplates provide users with a high performance Crystal Quartz retarder with a clear aperture of 8mm. These waveplates are air spaced, having a stainless steel spacer between two crystal quartz plates that form the zero order capability. Zero order waveplates are far less sensitive to temperature variations than multi-order waveplates. Air spaced waveplates have higher thermal stability and power handling capability than contacted or cemented waveplates. There are no failures as occur with contacted waveplates coming apart. Angular alignment of the waveplates is also more accurate. Tower Optical standard 10mm waveplates are made from Laser quality Crystal Quartz and are AR coated. Each plate is AR coated on both sides. Standard retardations are ½ or ¼ wave. These waveplates are offered either unmounted with a diameter of 10mm or mounted in a 12.7mm or 25.4mm, anodized Aluminum mounting ring with an 8mm clear aperture. The standard wavelengths available are shown in the chart below. As a special feature, Tower offers the ability to supply the 10mm zero order waveplates at wavelengths within a range of 10–20nm from any of those listed on the chart. Other wavelengths are available on a custom order basis.
| Tower Optical Corporation | |
|---|---|
| Product Category | Waveplates and Retardation Plates |
| Product Name | Zero Order Waveplate 10mm |
| Material | Quartz |
| Polarizer Features | Anti-Reflection Coating |
| Surface Quality | 10-5 Scratch / Dig |
| Surface Flatness | λ/10 |