Theory of Frustrated Total Reflection Involving Metallic Surfaces

J Res Natl Bur Stand A Phys Chem. 1963 Mar-Apr;67A(2):115-125. doi: 10.6028/jres.067A.012.

Abstract

The theory for frustrated total reflection has been developed for the case where the third medium is metallic of complex index. Using parallel polarized light a unique minimum in reflectance occurs at a definite film thickness. Experimental verification of the theory is made and indicates the theory applicable to the precise measurement of thin contact films existing between metallic and dielectric surfaces.