Cascaded adaptive-mask algorithm for twin-image removal and its application to digital holograms of ice crystals

An iterative Gerchberg-Saxton-type algorithm with a support constraint for twin-image removal from reconstructed Gabor inline holograms of single plane objects is described. It is applied to simulated holograms and to holograms of ice crystals recorded in the laboratory and in atmospheric clouds in situ. The algorithm is characterized by a distinction between object and background region and an iterative adaption of the object mask. Applying the algorithm to recorded inline holograms of atmospheric objects, the twin-image artifacts are removed successfully, for the first time allowing for a proper access to the in situ phase information on atmospheric ice crystals. It is also demonstrated that, after application of the algorithm, previously indiscernible internal object features can become visible for large Fresnel numbers.