We suggest a phenomenological theory of the polarization conversion effect, an excitonic analog of the birefringence phenomena, which is, however, observed in the photoluminescence rather than in the passing light. The optical polarization response of a model system of electrically neutral quantum dots subject to the magnetic field along the growth axis is calculated by means of the pseudospin method. All possible forms of the polarization response are determined by nine different field-dependent coefficients, which represent, therefore, a natural basis for classification of a variety of conversions. Existing experimental data can be well inscribed in this classification scheme. Predictions are made regarding two effects that have not been addressed experimentally.

• Received 23 May 2011

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.84.125320