Multichannel remote polarization control enabled by nanostructured liquid crystalline networks

Abstract

In this article, we demonstrate that a grating fabricated through nanoscale volumetric cross-linking of a liquid crystalline polymer enables remote polarization control over the diffracted channels. This functionality is a consequence of the responsivity of liquid crystal networks upon light stimuli. Tuning of the photonic response of the device is achieved thanks to both a refractive index and a shape change of the grating elements induced by a molecular rearrangement under irradiation. In particular, the material anisotropy allows for nontrivial polarization state management over multiple beams. The absence of any liquid component and a time response down to 0.2 ms make our device appealing in the fields of polarimetry and optical communications.