Vector partially coherent beams with prescribed non-uniform correlation structure.

Abstract

We introduce a general strategy for the synthesis of vector partially coherent beams (PCBs) with a prescribed non-uniform correlation structure. With it, we characterize a specific family of such beams, termed radially polarized Hermite non-uniformly correlated (RPHNUC) beams. These beams possess unusual propagation properties compared to vector PCBs with uniform correlation structure; for example, they maintain their dark hollow core and evolve multi-ring structures. These beams may prove useful in free-space optical communications, optical trapping, and polarization-sensitive imaging.