Interpretation of nondepolarizing Mueller matrices based on singular-value decomposition

A product decomposition of a nondepolarizing Mueller matrix consisting of the sequence of three factors - a first linear retarder, a horizontal or vertical retarding diattenuator, and a second linear retarder - is proposed. Each matrix factor can be readily identified with one or two basic polarization devices such as partial polarizers and retardation waveplates. The decomposition allows for a straightforward interpretation and parameterization of an experimentally determined Mueller matrix in terms of an arrangement of polarization devices and their characteristic parameters: diattenuations, retardances, and axis azimuths. Its application is illustrated on an experimentally determined Mueller matrix. (C) 2008 Optical Society of America.