All-optical control of polarization splitting with a dielectric-clad azobenzene liquid crystal

作者：Jau, Hung Chang; Chou, Pei Chieh; Chen, Chun Wei; Li, Cheng Chang; Leng, Shi Ee; Lee, Chun Hong; Lin, Tsung Hsien^*

来源：Optics Express, 2018, 26(2): 781-789.

DOI：10.1364/OE.26.000781

We report the design, fabrication, and characterization of an optically switchable polarizing beam splitter with a prism/azobenzene liquid crystal/prism hybrid structure. The beam splitter can operate in the polarization-splitting mode and the non-splitting mode. The switching between the modes is realized by the photoisomerization-induced phase transitions in the azobenzene liquid crystal, featuring all-optical control, bistability, and fast response. Such an active polarization-handling element is highly desirable as it not only simplifies and compacts sophisticated optical systems but also increases the degree of freedom in optical circuit design.

• 出版日期2018-1-22
• 单位中山大学