The effects of polarization characteristics on visual fatigue: an empirical study based on subjective and objective indicators

Introduction This study aimed to examine the impact of circularly polarized versus linearly polarized displays on visual health, with a focus on visual fatigue during prolonged screen use. Methods Eighteen healthy adults participated in a within-subject design. Under controlled illumination and display parameters, participants performed a 40-min standardized visual task. Electroencephalography (EEG) and Vertical electrooculography (VEOG) were recorded concurrently, while subjective questionnaires were administered to assess visual fatigue and alertness. Results Compared with linearly polarized displays, circularly polarized displays were associated with significantly smaller increases in subjective visual fatigue and smaller declines in alertness (ps < 0.05). Blink rate remained stable under circular polarization but increased significantly under linear polarization and higher than in circular polarization ( p < 0.05). EEG analyses revealed that circular polarization preserved stable neural activity, whereas linear polarization elicited a significant increase in the (θ + α)/β ratio and a significant decrease in alpha centroid frequency (ps < 0.05), indicating reduced cortical activation and slowed neural processing. Conclusion Circularly polarized displays, by more closely resembling the optical properties of natural light, can effectively mitigate visual fatigue induced by prolonged screen viewing. These findings provide both theoretical insights and empirical evidence to inform the development of healthier display technologies and ergonomics-related standards.