High-quality tunable optical vortex arrays with multiple states of orbital angular momentum

Abstract

We demonstrate the generation of high-quality optical vortex arrays (OVAs) with multiple states of orbital angular momentum (OAM) by uploading computer-generated holograms that are specially designed onto a liquid crystal spatial light modulator. The method of encoding both the amplitude and phase of an optical field into a phase-only holograms enables precise control of spatial transverse vortex modes. By combining the spiral, checkerboard and blazed-grating phase, the zero-order diffracted light can be efficiently suppressed while energy is redistributed onto higher orders to improve the quality of vortex array. Furthermore, the intensity distribution and spatial position can be flexibly modulated as well as OAM state of each vortex laser beam. It significantly increases the versatility of OAM, broadening its application in high-capacity optical communication and manipulation of multiple particles.