Reconfigurable elastomeric graded-index optical elements controlled by light.

ABSTRACT: In many optical applications, there is an increasing need for dynamically tunable optical elements that are able to shape the wavefront of light 'on demand'. In this work, an elastomeric easy-to-fabricate optical element whose transmission functions can be reversibly phase configured by visible light is demonstrated. The light responsivity of proper azopolymers incorporated within an elastomeric matrix is exploited to induce a light-controlled graded refractive index (GRIN) distribution within the bulk compound. The induced refractive index distribution is continuous and conformal to the intensity profile of the illumination at moderate power. A 100 mW doubled-frequency Nd:YAG Gaussian beam focused to a 650 μm waist is shown to induce a maximum relative refractive index change of ~0.4% in

SUBMITTER: Angelini A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6106995 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature