Generalized Eigenvalue Calibration Method for Mueller Imaging Polarimeters Based on Micro-Polarized Sensors With Optimal Set of Calibration Samples

Abstract Polarization cameras including 4-directional micro-polarizer array sensors are a very novel technology that have shown potential for fast and in-situ polarimetric measurement, which results in very appealing in applications, such as biomedical, astronomy, remote sensing, or industry. However, the use of these cameras leads to overdetermined measurement that needs a calibration method according to the particular design and measurement scheme. We presented the required considerations by successfully use the eigenvalue calibration method, which was implemented in the Mueller polarimeters based on polarimetric cameras, where the number of analyzed polarization states was n ≥8. We also studied the optimal set of calibration samples to achieve a more robust calibration. The proposed combination of calibration samples was independent of the dimensions and condition of the instrument matrices and can be extended to other variants of the eigenvalue calibration method. The calibration method and implementation of the polarimeter were validated through experimental measurements of the Mueller matrices of rotating polarizers and quarter-wave plates.