A study of novel mid-infrared optical devices: Wave plates and tunable filters

The mid-infrared wavelength range is important for both molecular sensing and thermal imaging. However, many optical devices that are common in the visible range are not as accessible in the mid-infrared. In this thesis, we look to partially address this problem by proposing two novel structures using subwavelength gratings. First, we look at a wave plate design that uses a physical path length difference to impose a phase shift between the components of incident light as an alternative to costly birefringent crystals. Then, we look at a crossed grating structure that serves as a narrowband filter due to its extraordinary transmission. We also propose a way to make the filter structure actively tunable.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical & Computer Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2013

Author dc:creator

• Taylor, Andrew

Contributors dc:contributor

• Wasserman, Daniel M.

• Mid-Infrared
• Wave Plate
• Birefringence
• Filter
• Subwavelength grating
• Plasmons

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2013 Andrew Taylor

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/44174

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/44174