Depolarization composition of the back-scattered circularly polarized light

Abstract

We consider the origin of unpolarised light resulting from the backscattering of circularly polarized light by random turbid tissue-like disperse medium. We reveal the dynamics of the backscattered fraction of unpolarized light, disclosing its meticulous decomposition into two rigorously polarized components characterized by opposing helicities, with fully defined polarization states. Concurrently, their superposition, driven by multiple scattering within the medium, leads to the appearance of a fraction of linear polarization. We emphasize that in-depth binding of circular polarization memory of light with the helicity flips occurs within the scattering medium, meaning the conservation of spin angular momentum. We anticipate that the results obtained hold significant implications for future studies, particularly in the field of tissue polarimetry and light vortexes.