Measuring diffraction efficiency of holograms?

Tom B. · Post by **Tom B.** » Sat Jul 27, 2002 2:45 am

I've seen a number of claimed results for various films and chemistries, but have never seen an explanation of the technique that the authors used for diffraction efficiency measurement. I can think of a number of ways of doing this, but I just wondered if there was a standard, reproducible method described somewhere.

Colin Kaminski · Post by **Colin Kaminski** » Mon Jul 29, 2002 11:52 pm

When I read of tests on chemistry/film combinations the diffraction efficiency is measured by making a grating and measuring the diffracted or reflected light. For an actual hologram it is much harder. Putting a background behind an object will increase the overall efficiency and decrease the efficiency of the actual object. Is this bad? I don't think so. I like creative backgrounds. Sand from a sand table makes an interesting background.

If your goal is to improve the process then perhaps a grating is the way to go. If your goal is to make interesting/provocative art then it is only one rung on the ladder.