1.
Appl Opt
; 59(11): 3404-3410, 2020 Apr 10.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-32400452
ABSTRACT
Differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy is a technique to image spatially dependent gradients in optical path lengths. Contrast is produced through the splitting of polarized light with quartz Wollaston prisms. Here we demonstrate that light splitting for DIC microscopy can also be achieved with Sanderson prisms consisting of polycarbonate bars under a bending load. Comparable image contrast while imaging cultured cells was achieved with this alternative technique. These results demonstrate an inexpensive and easily adjustable alternative to traditional quartz Wollaston prisms.