Diffractive optical elements 75 years on: from micro-optics to metasurfaces

Abstract

Diffractive optical elements (DOEs) are intricately designed devices with the purpose of manipulating light fields by precisely modifying their wavefronts. The concept of DOEs has its origins dating back to 1948 when D. Gabor first introduced holography. Subsequently, researchers introduced binary optical elements (BOEs), including computer-generated holograms (CGHs), as a distinct category within the realm of DOEs. This was the first revolution in optical devices. The next major breakthrough in light field manipulation occurred during the early 21st century, marked by the advent of metamaterials and metasurfaces. Metasurfaces are particularly appealing due to their ultra-thin, ultra-compact properties and their capacity to exert precise control over virtually every aspect of light fields, including amplitude, phase, polarization, wavelength/frequency, angular momentum, etc. The advancement of light field manipulation with micro/nano-structures has also enabled various applications in fields such as information acquisition, transmission, storage, processing, and display. In this review, we cover the fundamental science, cuttingedge technologies, and wide-ranging applications associated with micro/nano-scale optical devices for regulating light fields. We also delve into the prevailing challenges in the pursuit of developing viable technology for real-world applications. Furthermore, we offer insights into potential future research trends and directions within the realm of light field manipulation.

Advanced manufacturing of dielectric meta-devices

“…Figure 19 illustrates further advanced applications of dielectric metasurfaces. More detailed reviews about the applications of metasurfaces across various domains can be found in previous literature [326][327][328][329] . This miniaturization advantage of meta-devices has led to notable advancements in various applications, including aerial [330] , terrestrial [331] , and underwater [318,332] environments, particularly benefiting modern consumer optoelectronic devices such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and unmanned aerial vehicles [333] , among others.…”