Structuring light using solgel hybrid 3D-printed optics prepared by two-photon polymerization

Abstract

Three-dimensional direct laser writing based on a two-photon polymerization process of hybrid organic-inorganic material was used to print micrometer-scale refractive phase elements that were designed to manipulate incoming Gaussian beams into line and square intensity-flattened profiles. Here we present new results of shaping light beams, enabled by tailoring a two-photon absorption process for printing hybrid material structures based on a fast solgel process. The optical design and calculations of the optical elements are described, along with characterization of their performance in manipulating incoming light beams. The novelty described in this work, to the best of our knowledge, is the implementation of 3D solgel materials as better and improved micro-optics. This new ability provides upgraded 3D high resolution and smooth, printed optical phase structures using tailored hybrids with improved optical and mechanical properties compared to standard common photoresists. This opens new and exciting opportunities for compact and robust beam shaping by reaching glassy material properties and overcoming limitations of organic polymers.