OCT probing of highly porous polylactide matrices using estimations of the integrated scan-depth-dependent diffuse reflectivity

A new approach to the interpretation of OCT probes of coarse-grained random media is considered. In the framework of the approach, the integrated scan-depth-dependent diffuse reflectivity of a probed sample is estimated using a set of OCT A-scans. A relationship between the integrated reflectivity and a transport mean free path of light propagation in the probed sample is established using Monte-Carlo simulations. The considered technique was applied for characterization of the structure of highly porous polymer (polylactide) matrices synthesized using a supercritical fluidic (SCF) foaming of a pre-plasticized raw polymer. The results of experimental verification of the considered technique are compared with similar data obtained in the framework of other approaches to OCT data interpretation.