Nonlinear Image Formation by Optical Superlattices

TL;DR

This paper introduces a universal method using angular spectrum theory to achieve nonlinear image formation via optical superlattices, validated experimentally, expanding applications in imaging technologies.

Contribution

It develops an analytical framework for designing optical superlattices for nonlinear image formation, a novel approach in the field.

Findings

Successful experimental validation in LiTaO3 crystals.

Achieved nonlinear image formation during second-harmonic generation.

Method applicable to nonlinear beam shaping and arbitrary image formation.

Abstract

The angular spectrum theory is applied to the nonlinear harmonic generation process in optical superlattices. Several explicit and analytical structure functions are deduced to design optical superlattices for various purposes. Employing this method, nonlinear image formation is achieved during the second-harmonic generation process in a properly designed optical superlattice. This method is universal for both nonlinear beam shaping and nonlinear arbitrary image formation. The theory has been experimentally validated in two-dimensional optical superlattice of LiTaO3 crystals and the results agree well with the theoretical prediction. This work not only extends the application of optical superlattices, but also opens a new area for imaging technologies.