LBTEK polymer true zero-order half-wave plates (HWP) are based on an N-BK7 glass substrate and liquid crystal polymer (LCP) material, forming a sandwich structure that can be mounted in standard lens tubes. The fast axis of the liquid crystal molecules in the LCP layer is uniformly aligned, providing the same λ/2 retardation across the entire device plane, making it a single-wavelength device.

Polymer true zero-order half-wave plates are commonly used to rotate the polarization direction of linearly polarized light. Compared to multi-order waveplates, they offer larger allowable incident angles, higher stability, and lower wavelength sensitivity. Compared to quartz true zero-order waveplates, they feature simpler fabrication processes and can be made in much larger apertures.

LBTEK offers standard polymer true zero-order half-wave plates for wavelengths from 405 nm to 1550 nm, available in three clear apertures: Ø10 mm, Ø21.5 mm, and Ø45 mm. Each size is available with either a pre-mounted mechanical housing or without a housing. Waveplates with a mounted housing are non-removable and have the fast axis marked on the housing. Unmounted one-inch and two-inch waveplates have a D-shaped flat edge, with the fast axis parallel to the flat edge. Unmounted half-inch waveplates have short markings on the side to indicate the fast axis direction, making identification and use convenient for the customer.

LBTEK polymer true zero-order half-wave plates are based on an N-BK7 glass substrate and liquid crystal polymer birefringent material. By precisely controlling the thickness of the liquid crystal polymer film, the phase difference of π between the ordinary (o) light (perpendicular to the optical axis) and extraordinary (e) light (parallel to the optical axis) can be accurately controlled, resulting in a λ/2 retardation. Polymer true zero-order half-wave plates with a mounted mechanical housing are installed in standard SM05, SM1, and SM2 lens tubes. The surface of the lens tube is engraved with the product model and relevant parameters, and the top of the tube is marked with a fast axis identification line, making it easy for customers to quickly identify and use the waveplate.