Classical and quantum analysis of propagation invariant vector flat-top beams

Laser beams with a near uniform intensity profile, such as flat-top and super-Gaussian beams, have found many applications, particularly in laser materials processing. Unfortunately such beams are not eigenmodes of freespace and, thus, alter their intensity profile during propagation. This may be overcome by creating vector flat-top beams. Here, we exploit the polarization dependent efficiency of spatial light modulators to create a vector flat-top beam that maintains its intensity profile and vector nature during propagation. We apply a holistic classical and quantum toolkit to analyze the dynamics of the vector state during propagation and demonstrate the versatility of these beams in an optical trapping and tweezing application. Our simple generation approach and holistic analysis toolbox will appeal to an audience who wish to employ these beams in a variety of applications. (C) 2018 Optical Society of America