Magneto-optic sensors based on iron garnets

The use of single crystal bulk and film iron garnets in optical sensors is reviewed. Magneto-optic sensitivity and its stability are important parameters that depend on a variety of factors, including optical design. Polarimetric and diffractive sensor technologies are summarized, and several recent demonstrations of magnetic field, current, and rotation sensing using garnets are described. Garnets also find application as important nonsensing components in sensor systems.