Classification of Mueller matrices based on the arrow forms and their components of purity

Abstract

Mueller matrices are always be chosen to describe the linear response of a medium because of its complete information. The huge and complex information prevents their interpretation and classification in terms of typical micro-structure of biological tissues, which weakens the unique advantages of Mueller matrix and thus limits the applications. In this work, a general classification of Mueller matrices is presented considering the degree of polarizance and the statistical structure. Arrow forms of Mueller matrices containing statistical parameters are characterized in the specific conditions of different values of degree of polarizance. A parameter RVC is derived containing the variances of the classified arrow form of experimental Mueller matrix to characterize the polarized properties of tissues, and verified by the depth-resolved images using skin of mouse ex vivo. This approach enables the classification with clear interpretation of Mueller matrix, making possible medical applications of identifying tissue structure and early lesions by their categories and the arrow forms of Mueller matrices.