Single trace terahertz spectroscopic ellipsometry.

A new technique for terahertz time-domain ellipsometry is presented. Information of reflection coefficients of the sample in two orthogonal polarizations is encoded on the same terahertz trace by using a birefringent medium. This allows for single measurement refractive index extraction without the need for a moving analyzer. A comparison of the complex refractive index measurements of optical grade fused silica and non birefringent sapphire are carried out both in reflection ellipsometry and with a standard terahertz transmission spectrometer showing good agreement.