Metaoptics, a subcategory of two-dimensional metamaterials, is poised to replace traditional optics, including lenses, polarizers, prisms, and more. These components are comprised of engineered subwavelength elements, known as metaatoms, exhibiting a designed phase, amplitude, and polarization response. By continuously
varying these parameters over a substrate, it becomes possible to shape and mold the reflected or transmitted light wavefront with unprecedented accuracy. Furthermore, metaoptics allows for the combination of multiple functions in one essentially flat optical component. This technology is also compatible with standard semiconductor nanofabrication in cleanrooms, as evidenced by the proliferation of start-ups and the interest of major corporations. Another field of optics widely employed in industry and science is ultrafast lasers, which have made a profound impact on laser processing of materials, spectroscopy, imaging, and other areas. Despite this, there has been little attempt to converge these two fields and develop metaoptics with unique features tailored specifically for ultrafast lasers. The project, “Gradient Metasurfaces for Ultrafast Laser Beam Shaping (M-ULBS),” aims to fill this gap. By leveraging nanofabrication capabilities and experience in theoretical and experimental optics, we will conduct pioneering research to bring metaoptics that can shape the ultrafast laser beams in space while preserving temporal pulse characteristics. We will develop a range of elements, starting with simple lens, prism, and polarizer functionalities, and progressing to photon spin decouplers, orbital angular momentum beam generators, and holograms. This will not only introduce new functionalities to ultrafast systems but also enable a reduction in weight, cost, and alignment requirements. Finally, we will offer metaoptics components that can be installed in current or newly developed ultrafast laser systems for microfabrication, spectroscopy, and microscopy.
Project funding:
Projects funded by the Research Council of Lithuania (RCL), Projects carried out by researchers’ teams
Project results:
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Period of project implementation: 2024-09-02 - 2027-08-31
Project coordinator: Kaunas University of Technology
