Phase Topology Stability of an Optical Vortex via an Electrically Controlled Twist‐Planar Oriented Liquid Crystal Fresnel Lens

Melnikova, Elena and Pantsialeyeva, Katsiaryna and Gorbach, Dmitry and Tolstik, Alexei and Jr., Sergei Slussarenko and Karabchevsky, Alina (2025) Phase Topology Stability of an Optical Vortex via an Electrically Controlled Twist‐Planar Oriented Liquid Crystal Fresnel Lens. Advanced Optical Materials. ISSN 2195-1071

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Abstract

The stability of optical vortices (OVs) remains a key barrier to their integration in scalable photonic systems, despite their transformative potential in optical communication, sensing, and information processing. Here, a novel voltage‐tunable Fresnel lens based on a twist‐planar liquid crystal (LC) configuration is presented, enabling dynamic control and real‐time analysis of OV phase topology. This material platform exploits the intrinsic birefringence and electro‐optic responsiveness of LCs to achieve dual‐function operation: detection of topological charge and propagation of singular beams, modulated via low‐voltage actuation (0–35 V). The adaptive optical phase control is realized without altering the external optical setup, simplifying device architecture and reducing system complexity. Experimental and theoretical analyses reveal a clear correlation between voltage‐induced LC orientation and the vortex intensity profile in the Fourier plane. Owing to its low power consumption, compact footprint, and integration compatibility, this reconfigurable LC‐based lens represents a functional materials breakthrough for robust and tunable vortex‐enabled technologies.