Dual channel transformation of scalar and vector terahertz beams along the optical path based on dielectric metasurface

Abstract

Abstract The research on terahertz wave manipulation based on metasurfaces has gradually deepened, and the number of functions or electromagnetic control dimensions in a single device is constantly increasing. For the spatial dimension of terahertz field regulation, its design degrees of freedom have been expanded from a single transverse plane to the propagation path. In this paper, we propose a novel circularly polarization multiplexed metasurface for dual channel terahertz wave transmission control. Based on the spatial integration of two heterogeneous meta-atoms, which are spin-decoupled and isotropic, respectively, there are four phase channels that can be used at the same time, thus achieving different switching between vector and scalar beams in different circularly polarization channels along the optical path. For linearly polarized wave incidence, the device exhibits conversion between different vector beams longitudinally. To control more electric field components, we combine focused wavefront design with vector or scalar fields and utilize the focusing induced spin–orbit coupling effect, then complex amplitude switching of longitudinal electric field components is obtained. This article extends the manipulation of terahertz waves along the propagation trajectory based on metasurface from single to dual channel for the first time, providing a reference for the design of multifunctional meta-device in terahertz band.