Work

Multifunctional Meta-optic Azimuthal Shear Interferometer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Azimuthal shear interferometry is a versatile tool for analyzing wavefront asymmetries. However, conventional systems are bulky, alignment-sensitive, and prone to nonuniform shear. We present a broadband, compact, and robust meta-optics-based azimuthal shear interferometer in a common-path configuration, reducing the system size to the millimeter scale. Unlike conventional designs, the meta-optic azimuthal shear interferometer utilizes the localized wavefront modulation capabilities of meta-optics to achieve uniform azimuthal shear displacement independent of the radial position, significantly enhancing accuracy and stability. Our approach eliminates the need for bulky optical components and precise multipath alignment, making it more resilient to environmental disturbances. Its multifunctionality is demonstrated through applications in all-optical edge detection, differential interference contrast microscopy, and aberrated wavefront sensing. These results underscore its potential for real-time analog image processing, advanced optical imaging, and optical testing.

Source: Nano Letters

DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.5c00873

Authors: Linzhi Yu, Sergei Shevtsov, Haobijam Johnson Singh, Peter G. Kazansky, Humeyra Caglayan

Institutions: Tampere University, University of Southampton, Eindhoven University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Metamaterials and Metasurfaces Applications

Subfield: Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,500

Funder: European Commission