Nonseparable Polarization Wavefront Transformation

Phys Rev Lett. 2022 Oct 14;129(16):167403. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.129.167403.

Abstract

In this Letter, we investigate a new class of polarization wave front transformations which exhibit nonconventional far field interference behavior. We show that these can be realized by double-layer metasurfaces, which overcome the intrinsic limitations of single-layer metasurfaces. Holograms that encode four or more distinct patterns in nonorthogonal polarization states are theoretically demonstrated. This Letter clarifies and expands the possibilities enabled by a broad range of technologies which can spatially modulate light's polarization state and, for metasurfaces specifically, rigorously establishes when double-layer metasurfaces are-and are not-required.