Generation of Complex Vector and Vortex Extreme Ultraviolet Beams Using the S-Waveplate and Spiral Phase Plate during High-Order Harmonics Generation in Argon

We report the generation of vector and vortex high-order harmonic beams in argon using the femtosecond laser pulses propagated through the phase-modifying optical elements (S-waveplate or spiral phase plate). The effect of two-color pump-enhanced harmonics is combined with the polarization-structured vector and vortex beams. The application of a radially polarized vector beam in the orthogonal polarization two-color pump scheme allows for the generation of spatially structured odd- and even-order harmonics with variably polarized components. The intermediate states between radial and azimuthally polarized vector beams allow the generation of harmonics with twisted wavefronts.

Automated summary

This study reports the generation of vector and vortex high-order harmonic beams using phase-modifying optical elements. By combining two-color pump-enhanced harmonics with polarization-structured beams, spatially structured and twisted wavefront harmonics are generated.