Realization of linear-to-circular polarization conversion by a single bifilar particle

Abstract

In this paper, we provide a new theoretical model describing mechanism of electromagnetic radiation (and scattering) by passive single- and double-stranded (bifilar) helices. The proposed model is derived from basic physical principles till the end formulas which were computer processed for predicting a polarization type of the wave scattered by a helix. Comparison of the two types of helical oscillators revealed radical differences in their scattering performance (intensity and polarization). Optimal parameters of the bifilar helix for transformation of the polarization state from linear to circular were found for a non-axial direction of the incident and scattered field. Key features of the proposed model were confirmed by computer simulations.