Dynamically measuring the holo-information of light fields in three-dimensional space using a periodic polarization-structured light

Spatially structured light field has attracted great attention due to its novel properties and application potential in numerous fields. Among them, the most striking one is the polarization-structured light, known as the vector beam. Here, using a periodic polarization-structured light, we propose a method to dynamically measure the holo-information of light fields, including the amplitude, phase, and polarization distributions, in three-dimensional (3D) space. The measurement system is composed of a Mach-Zender interferometer involving a liquid crystal polarized grating in the reference arm, which is simple, stable, and easy to operate. Featuring the single-shot measurement, this method supports observing the dynamic variation of object light fields. The accuracy, 3D polarimetry, and dynamic observation of this method are validated by measuring a calibrated quarter-wave plate, a vector vortex beam, a Poincare beam, and a stressed polymethyl methacrylate sample.

Automated summary

This study introduces a method for dynamically measuring holographic information of light fields using periodic polarization-structured light, with a measurement system composed of a Mach-Zender interferometer involving a liquid crystal polarized grating in the reference arm. The accuracy, 3D polarimetry, and dynamic observation capabilities of this method were validated through experiments involving various types of light fields.