Production of orbital angular momentum states of optical vortex beams using a vortex half-wave retarder with double-pass configuration

Abstract

Higher orders of orbital angular momentum states (OAMs) of light have been produced with a double-pass configuration through a zero-order vortex half-wave retarder (VHWR). This double-pass technique can reduce the number of VHWR plates used, thus reducing costs. The OAM states of the vortex beams are identified by the near-field Talbot effect. Polarization dependence of the vortex states can also be demonstrated with this VHWR using Talbot effect. Without using the Talbot patterns, this effect of the polarization on the vortex beam can not be recognized. A theoretical validation has also been provided to complement the experimental results. Our study gives an improved understanding of this approach to use a VHWR plate.