Kerr constant measurement technique for liquids exhibiting orientational ordering of molecules

A technique for measurement of the Kerr constant in liquids based on polarimetric method is proposed which takes into account the effects arising from orientational ordering of the particles in liquids such as a linear birefringence and dichroism. Moreover, imperfections of quarter-wave plate, which is a typical component of the measurement system, are also taken into account. The theoretical analysis is illustrated by experimental data obtained for transformer oil. It is shown that serious errors of measurement of the Kerr constant may occur when the liquid between electrodes is treated as isotropic medium. High measurement accuracy is important because the Kerr constant measurements may be used for quantification of quality and aging of various widely used oils.