Using Polarization To Separate Reflection Components

Abstract

A technique is presented which utilizes the polarization properties of reflected light to separate specular and diffuse components of reflection. This technique works for both dielectric and metal surfaces, regardless of the color of the illuminating light source or the color detail on the object surface. In addition to separating out diffuse and specular components of reflection, the technique can also identify whether certain image regions correspond to a dielectric or metal object surface. Extensive experimentation is presented for a variety of dielectric and metal surfaces, both polished and rough, using a point light source.<>