Switchable scalar and vectorial vortex laser based on dynamic controlled integrated liquid crystal and dielectric metasurface

Abstract Cylindrical vector beams (CVBs) represent a prominent application mode characterized by cylindrically symmetric intensity distributions. Specially, vectorial vortex beams with spatially continuously varying polarization states have garnered significant research attention due to their unique ability to manipulate matter through innovative interaction mechanisms. To generate switchable scalar orbital angular momentums (OAM) and CVBs laser using integrated devices, metasurfaces with liquid crystals have emerged as a promising integrated platform with substantial implications for nanophotonics and optical field modulation. The device enables precise control of scalar vortex beams using silicon antennas in a horizontal polarization state. Simultaneously, the orientation of liquid crystal molecules can be dynamically switched on or off to form OAM beam in the vertical polarization state, leveraging the polarization-sensitive modulation characteristics of nematic liquid crystals. This approach facilitates two distinct operational modes: first, compensating for the horizontal polarization phase of the silicon antenna to produce scalar linearly polarized laser, and second, generating vertically polarized vortex light to create cylindrical vector laser. Our research demonstrates a practical methodology for harnessing switchable scalar OAM and CVBs laser with high-speed responsiveness and exceptional spatial mode diversity. The proposed technique holds considerable potential for advanced applications in three-dimensional optical trapping, communications, holography, and related interdisciplinary fields.