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Coupled-wave analysis of reflection gratings.

M G Moharam, T K Gaylord

|March 24, 2010

Summary

This study rigorously analyzes electromagnetic wave diffraction by periodic media using an exact coupled-wave method. Results validate approximate theories and cover non-Bragg incidence, enhancing understanding of reflection gratings.

Area of Science:

Physics
Optics
Materials Science

Background:

Diffraction gratings are crucial for manipulating light.
Understanding wave interaction with periodic structures is essential for optical device design.
Existing approximate theories for diffraction may have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

To rigorously analyze electromagnetic wave diffraction by longitudinally periodic media (reflection gratings).
To compare exact coupled-wave analysis results with approximate theories.
To discuss the applicability of approximate theories and include non-Bragg incidence cases.

Main Methods:

Employed an exact coupled-wave approach for rigorous analysis.
Formulated the analysis in a simple, computer-implementable matrix form.

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Calculated intensities of diffracted (reflected) and transmitted waves.

Main Results:

Presented exact results for wave intensities across a wide parameter range.
Compared exact findings with approximate two-wave modal and multiwave coupled-wave analyses.
Demonstrated the applicability and limitations of approximate diffraction theories.

Conclusions:

The exact coupled-wave approach provides accurate predictions for wave diffraction by periodic media.
Approximate theories have specific ranges of applicability, highlighted by comparison with exact results.
The analysis framework accommodates various incidence conditions, including non-Bragg orders.