General transfer-matrix method for optical multilayer systems with coherent, partially coherent, and incoherent interference.

The optical response of coherent thin-film multilayers is often represented with Fresnel coefficients in a 2 x 2 matrix configuration. Here the usual transfer matrix was modified to a generic form, with the ability to use the absolute squares of the Fresnel coefficients, so as to include incoherent (thick layers) and partially coherent (rough surface or interfaces) reflection and transmission. The method is integrated by use of models for refractive-index depth profiling.