Orthogonalization Properties of Linear Deterministic Polarization Elements

The conditions under which a linear anisotropic polarization element orthogonalizes several polarization states of input totally polarized light were studied in the paper. The criterion for orthogonalization was obtained in the form of inequality for anisotropy parameters. Orthogonalization properties of polarization elements with the most important anisotropy types were investigated. The parameters under which orthogonalization occurs, and the states that are orthogonalized were found. The loci of these states on the Poincare sphere were given for sake of illustration in each case.